Changing the water pump on the Riviera. Part One.

First step, get it up in the air.

I've been dragging my feet, but it's time to replace that water pump. I ordered it back in November and it arrived from Rock Auto in a couple of weeks. That was before Thanksgiving, but the Holidays are a busy time so I've been waiting to get started.

As I mentioned, my  garage door is broken and I need to fix the car so that it will be ready to drive out as soon as I figure out how to safely raise the door. 

 Well, I finally did it! 

Still looking good, 14 years later.

I finally listed my '96 Mustang for sale on CraigsList. It wasn't an easy decision, but I tried to make the smart decision... for once!

It was primarily an economic decision. I would "lose" less money by selling the '96, as opposed to keeping it, and selling the '06. I keep hearing about how it is becoming a "collectible" car soon, and will be going up in value. That might be true, but I can't hold onto it for another 15 years!

 Year end wrap up 2024.

image source: Dreams time.com

I'm looking to go in a different direction for '25. (Haven't I heard this somewhere before?)

Primarily I plan to downsize my fleet. Besides the constant expense of insurance, registration, and routine maintenance, I just don't get to drive my current cars enough. A lot of the time, they just sit.

No, I'm serious this time!

 I didn't follow this advice.

My Wife likes old trucks as long as they are only decorations.
I don't think that she would enjoy a vintage truck ride to LA.

Instead I took the heavily traveled road. On a quick, down and back, two day drive.

Interstate 5 on the way to Los Angeles.

 Ride or Die.

The Boozefighters Hollister Ca. 1948
photo source: TEARA the encyclopedia of New Zealand.

This is a term that I have started becoming aware of lately. It's not a term that I'd ever heard of, or used in my own life, up 'til now. I picked up the meaning through context; it means someone that is completely loyal to you, and will always have your back. I would imagine/hope that this relationship goes both ways! 

I googled the meaning, just to be sure. Nothing worse than when some old guy starts using a popular slang term while not quite understanding the nuance of what it really means. That's just embarrassing.

 I just can't stay away from online used car lots.

2010 Lincoln MKS AWD
8,950.00

The MKS was one of the final sedans in the Lincoln line up. It was the largest model, their flagship. It was replaced for a short time by the new Continental. This MKS is a platform mate of the Taurus.

 More on more doors  

The face that only a Mother, or a Cadillac lover could love.

Has it come to this?