Learning to appreciate the common stuff

[pwd72s]

Back from the kitchen remodel road trip. Since pool playing was the thing, I moved around the state. First Bend, then the Portland area, then to Salem for a few days, and after that Cottage Grove, for the small town feel.

This meant I drove our '99 Ford Ranger over mountain passes, backroads and freeways. It's mods are simple ones. Edelbrock IAS shocks on all 4 corners made for a dramatic improvement in handling. Spray in bedliner and a tonneau make for great luggage carrying capacity. It's a 2 wheel drive with the 4.0 V-6 of that year, no mods. Automatic, cruise, air, etc.

Everything worked throughout the trip...not one hiccough. Just turn the key & go.
Dead ass reliable.

Oh yes, it's plain Jane. Never a second glance from the strangers around me. Nothing exotic to attract the eyes of those who vandalize for kicks, and best of all, cops seem to have their blinders on when it comes to small pickups, especially one painted in a neutral color like harvest gold. Running the V-1 was also a great help.

Yes, I could have been considered a speeder at almost any time, but few obey Oregon's ridiculous speed limits of 55 on 2 lane roads and 65 on the interstate.
I became part of the huge herd, but the left lane herd. Highest cruising speed of 85 or so when traffic thinned enough to allow it. Mileage dropped at these speeds, but I still averaged 17-21 MPG throught the trip. This on the 10% ethanol krap the State made mandatory.

I could park anywhere and walk away without worry. I mean, what's this little pickup worth today? $5-6 thou? Easily replaced if need be.

How could I not learn to appreciate a rig like this? As reliable as that kitchen fridge you never think about. Can be worked on by any small town wrench.
Pull into any tire store for new tires.

All along this trip, I couldn't help but think about the Paranoia and hassles I could have encounted if I'd been doing this in my old '72 911S.

Yep....how can I not love this common transportation appliance? When the time comes, I'll gladly buy another.

Yet, the "car guy" in me remains. I just don't know if I ever want to have another car that attracts attention. Thoughts of buying an older small pickup are entering my head. One that could have a small V-8 stuffed under it's hood.

(edit) OMG! It's catching...I really meant to post this on the off topic board. My apologies. Moderator, please move...

[RWebb]

Paul - I have just the pickup for you...

[pwd72s]

Nice as that real power wagon is, it would attract too much attention....

[HarryD]

Paul,

Driving can always fun, even in a commuter appliance (like my Focus). It just requires to the proper state of mind. No need to apologize for your car selections. I suspect they are the right thing for you at the right time.

[equality72521]

I love driving my 2006 Wrangler just as much as my Porsche, it's just different. When the weather is nice the top goes down and the doors come off, nothing else like it.