In a message dated 3/10/00 7:42:25 PM Central Standard Time,
crothfuss@coastalnet.com writes:
<< "Customizing to include things from interior customs, to paint, to ground
effects, to shift knobs, steering wheels, dome lights, sound
systems, cold air induction, custom turbo plumbing,
lifting, lowering, etc..."
There's definitely a trend here. It extends to parts men who don't have a
clue how to use a book, cashiers who can't make change, and mechanics who
are parts changers instead of troubleshooters. >>
I've been quiet for a while but now must speak up. I couldn't agree more with
you.
I think "we've" been part of the problem. When was the last time anyone has
sent a meal back because it wasn't done right? How many times have you sent a
letter to a CEO or your congressman about your concerns? How many consider
"fast food" as a dinner out? The list goes on. Every time someone "settles"
for something it makes it more difficult for the next person.
Enough Bitching..... here's what I did.
I like older cars so I bought some older car equipment that is somewhat
useless on the modern cars and learned to do it myself. I have a Sun
distributor tester and can now rebuilt and recurve any unit I have. Same with
testing generators, starters, etc.
An old Bridgeport can be had for around $2000 or so with some tooling. A good
12X30 lathe for about $1500. Perhaps beyond the average persons means but if
a group of enthusiasts got together and chipped in a few dollars ... there's
always a retired machinist around that would be happy to show off his skills
for people willing to listen. And listen you should. I have no doubt that
many of them enjoy the companionship of like minded people.
I found this old gentleman who use to repair old Fords, went to see him for
an hour ... to make a long story short they had to send out a search party
for me as I was gone for about 8 hours.
Older people are a great resource, and everybody wins.
Ron
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