Resisting our disposable culture
January 20, 2010 (Wednesday)
My father bought a brand new 1938 Chevrolet sedan, and kept it until he bought a used 1947 Chevrolet in 1950. I always marveled at his keeping one car so very long, until I exceeded his record myself. I’ve had the car I’m now driving for over 15 years, and it’s still a very good car, I think. But my record comes nowhere close to that of Irv Gordon, who has driven his 1966 Volvo 2.7 million miles!
His suggestions on getting the most mileage from a car are regular maintenance and careful care of the body, protecting the finish from rust and corrosion, mostly by simple washing and waxing.
He has gone beyond the regular maintenance suggested in the manual by changing the fluids (transmission, etc.) much more often than recommended by the manufacturer. He recommends finding a mechanic who understands the vehicle. And do pre-emptive repairs, like replacing the timing belt or hoses, listening carefully for unusual sounds and taking action to make repairs if necessary. Always solve a small problem before it beomes a larger one.
Oh, and he likes the car. The big secret to keeping a car a long time is liking it in the first place.
I guess that’s the secret to being at peace with yourself and others, isn’t it? If you like yourself or someone else, you will try to get along.