Edmunds Members - Cars and Conversations (Archived)

graphicguy

Small Weber...propane. I think I paid $500. 11 yrs old and still going strong.

roadburner

Big Green Egg here- love it. This one isn't ours, but we have the identical setup:

suydam

I'm no help. Just a Weber charcoal grill for us.

js06gv

graphicguy said:

Small Weber...propane. I think I paid $500. 11 yrs old and still going strong.

I second the Weber. Mine is the Genesis direct propane (hooks to house line) and I love it. I was apprehensive about spending $700 on a grille but when I did the math on the $200-300 grilles I had been replacing every 3-5 years it was well worth the spend. Have had it for 7 years now and I've only been through a set of grates, but that was more personal preference than anything else. They probably could've made it another couple of years.

stickguy

I did the Weber once. Spent a lot more on it. Was disappointed with how fast the consumable parts wore out, and how much it cost to replace them. Though when it was new, it did cook really well, but so does my $150 Lowes job.

murphydog

Michaell said:

Thanks!

I think our current grille cost us around $100-150 and we've had it for 6-8 years.

Our igniter is a hit and miss thing; that and the hot and cold spots is causing mrs. michaell to approve appropriations for the new grille.

Went with the 3 burner Weber - no side burner and no frills, think it was $499 15 years ago? Replaced the igniter twice. Sits outside in the pacific northwest and burners and stuff have not rusted out.

Regulator froze up after the gas station overfilled my tank, and Weber sent a free replacement, with free overnight shipping.

No hot spots or any other funny business. Question is do you want to spend $200-250 every 4-5 years or $500 once?

nyccarguy

I have a Ducane Affinity that my parents bought us as a housewarming gift when we moved in almost 7 years ago.  The original igniter still works.  Even in the dead of winter.

qbrozen

We bought a natural gas Jenn Air from Lowes about 11 years ago. It is massive, weighs a ton, and was I believe about $1200. I wanted it because it is all stainless, even the grates. Wife wanted it because it is a 5-burner with side burner and rotisserie (although we have never used that feature). They stopped producing it this way because I guess they figured out it won't need [many] parts replaced. We use it year round and it still works as flawlessly now as day 1, and I have never done anything but clean it.

imidazol97

andres3 said:

imidazol97 said:

The nice new highway that we built in Dayton for Driver100 to use has been damaged already. A gasoline tank truck was hit by a driver going north in the southbound lanes.

Here's a picture of the resulting explosion after the fire has been burning for a while. Notice the huge black cloud that has existed for several minutes and note the northbound drivers on the right who refuse to slow down or move over far to the right to avoid the danger. One car is almost hit by a plume of burning gas.

You will have to click on the video to view. The web site is awful with all kinds of things loading.

http://fox45now.com/news/local/odot-cameras-catch-vehicle-explosion-on-i-75-south-in-dayton

Does it really matter how fast you drive through a plume of burning gas? I would think that it would actually be a bad thing to drive through it slowly as you give the burning gas more time to catch you on fire.

I didn't make it clear enough what my point was. I meant that northbound drivers should have slowed down AND moved farthest to the right to avoid the dangerous potential ahead. Even if they didn't realize it was a fuel truck with an explosion of the thousands of gallons of fuel when the tractor's fire ignited the load, they should have moved over and away. But NO. The one driver was going through hell or high water.

Myself I would have been on the exit ramp northbound to the surface streets. Then I would have reentered the freeway and been past the danger area. My belief is that a fire like that is burning materials that may give off toxic fumes. I don't need any more toxins than what I've already taken on.

imidazol97

Grills? My wife decided no more 3 burner monsters for her. We got a two burner unit fairly early in the season but had shopped the 3 box stores in our area, Lowes, HomeDepot, and Menards. Takes up less room on deck. Rarely did we cook anything needing a large area or double layer grills.

Parts often are replaceable with generics. Sometimes, the online stores have better pricing for replacement parts for the exact brand.

My sense is that grills are the aspirin of this era: only 5 companies made aspirin in the 80s, but there were all kinds of branding applied to make people think they were different companies. Sort of like mattress shopping.

imidazol97

@Fintail
You mentioned a person who did car reviews and gave the name Scotty Kilmer IIRC. I looked online and only found auto repair videos. I realized that's why the name seemed familiar because I like his how-to-do-it videos, especially compared to some of the ego junk that people put up thinking they understand the pedagogy needed.

So I have Tom Voelk. His review of the one I watched yesterday seemed right on with only mild opinion, rather than bias.

I have Brandy Holt who is the guy who gets into the trunk along with a two or three suiter, then closes the lid, LOL, but gives a clear and objective
Are there others?

stickguy

I go with Breld reviews. He has owned or driven everything.

suydam

I think you mean Alex Dykes. Alex on Autos. His reviews are very thorough.

fintail

Something about Kilmer annoys me. He has numerous fun hints and tricks, but I think I think a few cars have vexed him, and it shows in his opinions. Some of his advice is questionable to me, too, like instructing people to install aftermarket LEDs.

There's a younger guy on YT who goes by "saabkyle" who has pretty objective reviews. He also has a fun mix of cars, from old to everyday to exotic

For repair stuff, I don't watch much general material, but "mercedessource" is the account of noted DIY MB cult figure Kent Bergsma. I used to live near him when he had a shop, and my fintail was there several times - a very honest and affable guy. His channel has interesting maintenance-related material

One of the more interesting channels I have found Is this Russian autobody repairman . It's fascinating to see how all this is done, and the use of traditional methods.

imidazol97 said:

@Fintail
You mentioned a person who did car reviews and gave the name Scotty Kilmer IIRC. I looked online and only found auto repair videos. I realized that's why the name seemed familiar because I like his how-to-do-it videos, especially compared to some of the ego junk that people put up thinking they understand the pedagogy needed.

So I have Tom Voelk. His review of the one I watched yesterday seemed right on with only mild opinion, rather than bias.

I have Brandy Holt who is the guy who gets into the trunk along with a two or three suiter, then closes the lid, LOL, but gives a clear and objective
Are there others?

graphicguy

My grill buying test is easy. If I shake the top and the whole grill frame flexes, it's off my list.

If the frame doesn't shake, it's on the list. Like most of you, I don't need a lot of frills. No rotisserie, no side burner.

Although, I am mildly interested in some of those new wood pellet grills.

andres3

fintail said:

One of the more interesting channels I have found Is this Russian autobody repairman . It's fascinating to see how all this is done, and the use of traditional methods.

I sometimes watch Russian dash cam videos. Based on what I'm seeing about the driving skill there, I would think this Russian Autobody repairman has one of the most secure jobs and businesses in the country.

Mr_Shiftright

driver100 said:

oldfarmer50 said:

Michaell said:

Solicitation of advice .... my BBQ is in need of replacing.

Looking for input on brands and such.

I'm not looking to spend a ton of money. My current grille is starting to experience spotty heating.

And, I don't need anything huge - usually grilling 3 of whatever.

Thanks in advance!

Get the $2 one at the gas station and a bag of charcoal. Spend the money you saved on better steaks.

If you really want to save some money.......

OR
Staying with cars.......

And the best part is that you can just flush the used charcoal (let it cool first).

Mr_Shiftright

fintail said:

Something about Kilmer annoys me. He has numerous fun hints and tricks, but I think I think a few cars have vexed him, and it shows in his opinions. Some of his advice is questionable to me, too, like instructing people to install aftermarket LEDs.

There's a younger guy on YT who goes by "saabkyle" who has pretty objective reviews. He also has a fun mix of cars, from old to everyday to exotic

For repair stuff, I don't watch much general material, but "mercedessource" is the account of noted DIY MB cult figure Kent Bergsma. I used to live near him when he had a shop, and my fintail was there several times - a very honest and affable guy. His channel has interesting maintenance-related material

One of the more interesting channels I have found Is this Russian autobody repairman . It's fascinating to see how all this is done, and the use of traditional methods.

imidazol97 said:

@Fintail
You mentioned a person who did car reviews and gave the name Scotty Kilmer IIRC. I looked online and only found auto repair videos. I realized that's why the name seemed familiar because I like his how-to-do-it videos, especially compared to some of the ego junk that people put up thinking they understand the pedagogy needed.

So I have Tom Voelk. His review of the one I watched yesterday seemed right on with only mild opinion, rather than bias.

I have Brandy Holt who is the guy who gets into the trunk along with a two or three suiter, then closes the lid, LOL, but gives a clear and objective
Are there others?

Scotty is a character but I think he borders on the "guess and replace" school of auto repair.

houdini1

Most people can't tell that new E Class from a C Class.

Michaell said:

Solicitation of advice .... my BBQ is in need of replacing.

Looking for input on brands and such.

I'm not looking to spend a ton of money. My current grille is starting to experience spotty heating.

And, I don't need anything huge - usually grilling 3 of whatever.

Thanks in advance!

Weber.

fintail

That might be why he is put off by complex cars. It's hard to guess and check your way out of a problem in a 2006 MB with airmatic.

Mr_Shiftright said:

Scotty is a character but I think he borders on the "guess and replace" school of auto repair.

fintail

Two easy ways I use: On the E, the upper body crease on the side goes through the door handles, on the C it goes just below them. E has double LED DRLs, C has single.

houdini1 said:

Most people can't tell that new E Class from a C Class.

Mr_Shiftright

fintail said:

That might be why he is put off by complex cars. It's hard to guess and check your way out of a problem in a 2006 MB with airmatic.

Mr_Shiftright said:

Scotty is a character but I think he borders on the "guess and replace" school of auto repair.

Exactly. That's why he has a video "Don't Buy a Used Mercedes". He can't handle it, so he fears it.

andres3

fintail said:

For some people, $13/mile is like 13 cents per mile for you or me. But no doubt a lease would have been cheaper there.

But you can't lease for 16 months. Would a 24 month lease still win?

andres3

qbrozen said:

Michaell said:

When @jpp5862 and I visited the Fiat / Alfa Romeo / Maserati dealer a month or so ago, they had just signed the agreement to also add McLaren.



The first vehicles had just been dropped off when we toured the lot with the GSM; he indicated that every mile put on the McLaren would reduce the value by $100.



Not sure if that's truth or hyperbole.

I'd venture a guess he is way off. First, nobody is coming in and knocking $100 off their offer on a new McLaren that has 1 mile on the odometer or $300 off for 3 miles, etc. "I need to get $1000 off my new $190k car, please get me one with 10 miles on it." Second, when the car is purchased, it is depreciating a HELL of a lot more than $100 for that first mile. 



Are there actually any records of a new car less than 24 hours old being traded-in to verify the steep depreciation "once you drive it off the lot" Seems to me that most are deterred from trading in a day old car by some low-ball offer, but has anyone really ever gone through with it?

Insurance companies argue you can't know what the loss/depreciation is unless you actually sell the car. Once you sell it, it becomes real, whereas everything else is just theory. I don't buy the argument, but that doesn't stop them from using it.

roadburner

I've subscribed to Automobile, Autoweek, Car and Driver, and Road&Track for decades. Ditto for two British magazines- BMW Car and Thoroughbred and Classic Cars. I also get Grassroots Motorsports as well as a couple of motorcycle magazines. I pick up CAR, EVO, Modern Classics, Performance BMW ,Practical Classics, and Top Gear when they have some stories that interest me.

One thing I like about the Brit mags is that almost all of them usually have at least 5-6 long term test cars in their fleet and they report on them every month- warts and all.

My current US favorite is Road and Track; after it was revamped a few years ago I've found it to have a good balance of stories on interesting new and vintage performance cars as well as coverage of modern and historic race cars, drivers, and tracks.

fintail

I wouldn't be surprised if leases with non-standard terms are possible for very high end cars.

I also wouldn't be surprised if a 24 month lease worked out better, too. Kind of like with standard highline cars - probably cheaper to lease every 3 years then buy and trade in with that frequency. For some cars, it seems best to either buy and hold for 8++ years, or lease.

andres3 said:

But you can't lease for 16 months. Would a 24 month lease still win?

andres3

graphicguy said:

Ya know....I thought that since I've "hit" a certain station in life....house paid off, son a college graduate and tuition bills finally stopped coming in, comfortable with work....actually enjoying it without the cloud hanging over my head that I HAVE TO work. Now, no wife to support, etc.

I thought dropping $50K-$60K on a car was my reward. True, I may have picked the wrong car (more true than not). But, I'm not certain I'll drop that kind of money on a car again. Not sure there's one that is worth that amount (or more). Maybe if I had bought a 5 or 7 Series....maybe an E Class, I would feel differently. And, those of you who have those cars, I love when you post pics of them and give your driving impressions.

Maybe I'm just jealous because my experiences in that price range weren't nearly as good as yours?

Not sure.

But, when I was test driving recently, there are some cars that sell for much less, that are really good. Loved the Accord Touring. Not sure there's much else you could ask for in a car (if you're not autox, towing, or racing). And, it's $20K...even $30K less than the others I mentioned. Was just as surprised with the Toyota Avalon. Not a sports car by any means. All the luxury and tech you could possibly want in a car.....all for less than $40K.

Haven't driven the new A/S4s recently, or the 3/5 Series since they've been updated. Might change my tune if they're much better than before.

My Q50 is a blast. Would I enjoy a Q70 even more? Don't know.

Anyway, no point to this rambling post. Just something I've thought about the last few months.

Then there's this....more fun per dollar than I can ever remember having while clothed....

https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B4JKTllfQ_oIeDJYZmxpRU5QYXgxU1FKdVhSOUszaWFOTExR/view?usp=sharing

Taken while preparing for a local car show. Friend of mine lives in the area and she let me use her driveway while giving the Cobra it's final detail touchups before the show got under way.

I'm fairly familiar with the Accord, and someone did just write about the V6 Accord Coupe being the last real true American Muscle car.

Still, I think the Accord could use improvements. Let's start with some more power, 330 HP is good, 400 HP like Infinity is doing is better. Going to need to go RWD or AWD for that, another big improvement that could be made to the Accord. It also could handle better. It's competent for normal people, but /Audi owners would expect more. You don't have to autocross or race on a track to appreciate better handling.

The new A4 is very good, but I actually like the previous generation S4 more for the following reasons:

1) Better interior. Fit/Finish/Materials Quality seems to have taken a step down in the new generation A4's. I however, had the upgraded S4 with the upgraded Napa Leather interior (Magma red). Also, part of this is subjective as I just liked the old layout and style more, but materials quality has gone the wrong way, or maybe I'm just a HUGE fan of the B8/B8.5 version.

2) The transmission seems a bit too laid-back and soft. Can't even tell it's a dual clutch unit anymore.

Still, I'm jealous they've dropped over 200 pounds of lard on the new chassis, while making it longer, wider, and bigger (more leg room).

If they could make me a B9 S4 with a B8 S4 interior, I'd be very interested. Did I mention that with a Stage 1 tune you are at about 400 HP and 400 lb/ft. of torque? That spoiled me.

The Q60 with 2 doors weighs more than my old S4 with 4 doors did!

I wonder what kind of brake pads they are putting in those 400 HP Infinities so that they don't disintegrate if someone decides to use all those 400 horses safely.

andres3

graphicguy said:

Ya know....I thought that since I've "hit" a certain station in life....house paid off, son a college graduate and tuition bills finally stopped coming in, comfortable with work....actually enjoying it without the cloud hanging over my head that I HAVE TO work. Now, no wife to support, etc.

I thought dropping $50K-$60K on a car was my reward. True, I may have picked the wrong car (more true than not). But, I'm not certain I'll drop that kind of money on a car again. Not sure there's one that is worth that amount (or more). Maybe if I had bought a 5 or 7 Series....maybe an E Class, I would feel differently. And, those of you who have those cars, I love when you post pics of them and give your driving impressions.

Maybe I'm just jealous because my experiences in that price range weren't nearly as good as yours?

Not sure.

But, when I was test driving recently, there are some cars that sell for much less, that are really good. Loved the Accord Touring. Not sure there's much else you could ask for in a car (if you're not autox, towing, or racing). And, it's $20K...even $30K less than the others I mentioned. Was just as surprised with the Toyota Avalon. Not a sports car by any means. All the luxury and tech you could possibly want in a car.....all for less than $40K.

Haven't driven the new A/S4s recently, or the 3/5 Series since they've been updated. Might change my tune if they're much better than before.

My Q50 is a blast. Would I enjoy a Q70 even more? Don't know.

Anyway, no point to this rambling post. Just something I've thought about the last few months.

Then there's this....more fun per dollar than I can ever remember having while clothed....

https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B4JKTllfQ_oIeDJYZmxpRU5QYXgxU1FKdVhSOUszaWFOTExR/view?usp=sharing

Taken while preparing for a local car show. Friend of mine lives in the area and she let me use her driveway while giving the Cobra it's final detail touchups before the show got under way.

I'm fairly familiar with the Accord, and someone did just write about the V6 Accord Coupe being the last real true American Muscle car.

Still, I think the Accord could use improvements. Let's start with some more power, 330 HP is good, 400 HP like Infinity is doing is better. Going to need to go RWD or AWD for that, another big improvement that could be made to the Accord. It also could handle better. It's competent for normal people, but /Audi owners would expect more. You don't have to autocross or race on a track to appreciate better handling.

The new A4 is very good, but I actually like the previous generation S4 more for the following reasons:

1) Better interior. Fit/Finish/Materials Quality seems to have taken a step down in the new generation A4's. I however, had the upgraded S4 with the upgraded Napa Leather interior (Magma red). Also, part of this is subjective as I just liked the old layout and style more, but materials quality has gone the wrong way, or maybe I'm just a HUGE fan of the B8/B8.5 version.

2) The transmission seems a bit too laid-back and soft. Can't even tell it's a dual clutch unit anymore.

Still, I'm jealous they've dropped over 200 pounds of lard on the new chassis, while making it longer, wider, and bigger (more leg room).

If they could make me a B9 S4 with a B8 S4 interior, I'd be very interested. Did I mention that with a Stage 1 tune you are at about 400 HP and 400 lb/ft. of torque? That spoiled me.

The Q60 with 2 doors weighs more than my old S4 with 4 doors did!

I wonder what kind of brake pads they are putting in those 400 HP Infinities so that they don't disintegrate if someone decides to use all those 400 horses safely.

fintail

I also like the classified ads in British magazines for vintage cars. Practical Classics is fun along with Thoroughbred and Classic cars and Classic and Sportscar. "Mercedes Enthusiast" is another good British magazine.

roadburner said:

I've subscribed to Automobile, Autoweek, Car and Driver, and Road&Track for decades. Ditto for two British magazines- BMW Car and Thoroughbred and Classic Cars. I also get Grassroots Motorsports as well as a couple of motorcycle magazines. I pick up CAR, EVO, Modern Classics, Performance BMW ,Practical Classics, and Top Gear when they have some stories that interest me.

One thing I like about the Brit mags is that almost all of them usually have at least 5-6 long term test cars in their fleet and they report on them every month- warts and all.

dino001

andres3 said:

roadburner said:

jmonroe said:

Just be sure if you over work it, you wipe off the track dust before having it hooked to the dealer. Not too many street driven cars need multiple rear ends in a year.

jmonroe

I'm at the point where I refuse to buy a performance car from a manufacturer that voids the warranty if if you take the car to the track.

Ditto.

That's like saying "we put the rev limiter at 7K, but if you go over 3K, warranty is void."

Or "we put the top speed limiter at 155 MPH, but if you go over 100 MPH, warranty is void."

I told America's/Discount Tires the same thing on a Continental warranty claim. I said if they are going to call this a high-performance tire (or ultra high, or max performance), it is kind of silly to void a warranty due to so-called "abuse" Continental covered the rubber chunking issue; no hassle from them.

There are limits to that mindset. Formula One cars have super-high performance tires, yet they change them two, three, or sometimes four times in a single race covering couple of hundred miles. There is of course no warranty, but there is an expectation of structural integrity for a given period (for example 30-40 laps).

Going back to normal cars that are called performance cars - it all depends what is the stated warranty purpose - driving vehicle at legal speed on public roads, or other uses. I have no problem doing one or another, as long as it's clearly stated upfront. That's why you see that fine print on all car commercials with stunt drivers behind the wheel. It's called marketing. So, having a warranty stated for a street legal use only is a perfectly legitimate way of selling a performance car. It "can do" X. But you "should do" only Y. Nissan even had an old commercial series of its Pathfinder, titled "Not that you should, but you could". Clearly defined product expectations are essential. BTW, the fact that a commercial shows a stunt driver is not legally binding to them - your purchase contract is.

andres3

fintail said:

No doubt older cars offer more bang for the buck, as new cars are so expensive for a number of reasons. I can have more fun and driving pleasure in a common 10K vintage car than in most new 60K cars.

graphicguy said:

Ya know....I thought that since I've "hit" a certain station in life....house paid off, son a college graduate and tuition bills finally stopped coming in, comfortable with work....actually enjoying it without the cloud hanging over my head that I HAVE TO work. Now, no wife to support, etc.

Taken while preparing for a local car show. Friend of mine lives in the area and she let me use her driveway while giving the Cobra it's final detail touchups before the show got under way.

Is a 22 year old '95 Neon considered Vintage yet? How old is "vintage?" Of course, even if the Neon had less than a 100 miles on the odometer, it still wouldn't be worth $10K. Then again, anyone have any data on mint condition preserved 20+ year old Neon's with less than 20,000 miles on them?

I pick 20,000 miles because you'll probably get about 25,000 more miles before you have to replace everything as long as you can live with 1,000 rattles, wind noise through faulty seals in the windows, and electrical gremlins that eat up your car battery every year.

andres3

roadburner said:

fintail said:

Beat me to it. Thinks a Genesis is a Bentley, wants a V8 to replace his MB 550 (S550? E550? SL550? CLK550?) I don't know if I want advice from that guy

Fun story though, reminds me of people in the cringe-worthy commercial who think the Malibu is some kind of Tesla-Audi hybrid.

Simple explanation- yet another village is missing its idiot. Much like the imbeciles who post ads for their V6 BMW. I wouldn't even consider a car that has been owned by someone that is so clueless.

Would you buy an Audi with a V5?

andres3

Michaell said:

I've been a car enthusiast since I was little. Played with Matchbox cars as a kid. I collected the "Models of Yesteryear" - would get one each year at Christmas. Started reading Car & Driver at age 13.

But, I've always owned or leased "pedestrian" models - Honda, VW, Ford, Saturn, etc. The Outback we have is the closest thing we've had to a luxury car - blind spot, adaptive cruise, lane monitoring, etc.

I'd like to think at some point I'll drive something more sporty or luxurious, but I think deep down I picked up my dad's habit of frugality. And, with a lot of tech features finding their way into lower priced cars, I think I'll always be able to get what I want at a reasonable price.

You could go with @graphicguy method, and get something old and sporty at a reasonable price. Isn't there a website that is constantly specializing in writing articles about (Why buy a brand new Camry when for the same amount you could have "insert exotic sport/luxury car here." )

andres3

roadburner said:

Mr_Shiftright said:

I foresee a lot more DUIs.

I dealt with that problem first hand; a Breathalyzer or a blood test will reveal the quantity of alcohol in an individuals system. That's why you can have per se statutes that set"legal limits" for alcohol. In contrast, the available tests for marijuana can only tell that an individual has smoked it in the past 10-14 days- which means the LEO has to observe impaired driving and prove that it was caused by recent use of marijuana.

I once had an officer at a roadblock detect the smell of marijuana in a car and he asked the driver if he had smoked weed. The guy said yes and the officer charged the guy with DUI. The problem was that the officer didn't observe any impaired driving and didn't administer any field sobriety tests. The guy ended up being found guilty of possession but the DUI was dismissed.

Andres wrote:

In my opinion, all traffic infractions should have an "observable hazard" be part of the vehicle code of each violation. So it isn't good enough if someone takes a U-turn at 3 AM in the morning and there's a no U-turn sign, the officer should have to observe that they took the right of way from another vehicle, impacted them in some negative way (such as forcing them to brake), Otherwise, it's revenue generation, pure and simple.

oldfarmer50

N

driver100 said:

oldfarmer50 said:

Michaell said:

Solicitation of advice .... my BBQ is in need of replacing.

Looking for input on brands and such.

I'm not looking to spend a ton of money. My current grille is starting to experience spotty heating.

And, I don't need anything huge - usually grilling 3 of whatever.

Thanks in advance!

Get the $2 one at the gas station and a bag of charcoal. Spend the money you saved on better steaks.

If you really want to save some money.......

OR
Staying with cars.......

That's the spirit driver100. Innovation can be fun.

andres3

iluvmysephia1 said:

My Mom called me "the peanut butter kid". I love it still. Mrs. iluvmysephia1 insists on the healthy brands of peanut butter. Crunchy or creamy are both delicious. You can eat it on celery even!

Pot smoking has really picked up in popularity of late. My home state of Washington and also Colorado (no doubt there's more now) have legalized it. I can't understand how lawmakers have OK'd it when in some smokers it causes paranoia and also it seems to cause some drivers to slow down too much. That, you guys know, is not acceptable and is not safe.


Andres says:

I've heard that Washington has had that problem of too many too slow drivers for a long time. Now I know the real reason; dang pot.

Michaell

andres3 said:

Michaell said:

I've been a car enthusiast since I was little. Played with Matchbox cars as a kid. I collected the "Models of Yesteryear" - would get one each year at Christmas. Started reading Car & Driver at age 13.

But, I've always owned or leased "pedestrian" models - Honda, VW, Ford, Saturn, etc. The Outback we have is the closest thing we've had to a luxury car - blind spot, adaptive cruise, lane monitoring, etc.

I'd like to think at some point I'll drive something more sporty or luxurious, but I think deep down I picked up my dad's habit of frugality. And, with a lot of tech features finding their way into lower priced cars, I think I'll always be able to get what I want at a reasonable price.

You could go with @graphicguy method, and get something old and sporty at a reasonable price. Isn't there a website that is constantly specializing in writing articles about (Why buy a brand new Camry when for the same amount you could have "insert exotic sport/luxury car here." )

Jalopnik is the site you are referring to.

And, while I like your idea of an older fun car, I don't have room for a 4th vehicle in my stable. No street parking allowed by my HOA.

Now, if I can get into a house with a 3-car garage, all bets are off.

jmonroe

suydam said:

I'm no help. Just a Weber charcoal grill for us.

You don't have to apologize by saying "just".

Charcoal still provides the best taste. That's why I use oak strips to flame my signature steaks. 3 minutes each side flipped diagonally at a minute and a half. Then flop it over and do it again (perfect medium rare). Not quite as good as charcoal but damn close. Don't get all excited guys, that's just part of my secret.

Thanks for giving me the idea for what we should have for dinner tonight.

jmonroe

jmonroe

js06gv said:

graphicguy said:

Small Weber...propane. I think I paid $500. 11 yrs old and still going strong.

I second the Weber. Mine is the Genesis direct propane (hooks to house line) and I love it. I was apprehensive about spending $700 on a grille but when I did the math on the $200-300 grilles I had been replacing every 3-5 years it was well worth the spend. Have had it for 7 years now and I've only been through a set of grates, but that was more personal preference than anything else. They probably could've made it another couple of years.

So, you cook with a Genny, huh?

When my Charbroil konks out I'll have to try a Genny grill. I've heard good things about them too.

Just hope I can afford another heavily depreciating appliance.

jmonroe

Mr_Shiftright

andres3 said:

roadburner said:

Mr_Shiftright said:

I foresee a lot more DUIs.

I dealt with that problem first hand; a Breathalyzer or a blood test will reveal the quantity of alcohol in an individuals system. That's why you can have per se statutes that set"legal limits" for alcohol. In contrast, the available tests for marijuana can only tell that an individual has smoked it in the past 10-14 days- which means the LEO has to observe impaired driving and prove that it was caused by recent use of marijuana.

I once had an officer at a roadblock detect the smell of marijuana in a car and he asked the driver if he had smoked weed. The guy said yes and the officer charged the guy with DUI. The problem was that the officer didn't observe any impaired driving and didn't administer any field sobriety tests. The guy ended up being found guilty of possession but the DUI was dismissed.

Andres wrote:

In my opinion, all traffic infractions should have an "observable hazard" be part of the vehicle code of each violation. So it isn't good enough if someone takes a U-turn at 3 AM in the morning and there's a no U-turn sign, the officer should have to observe that they took the right of way from another vehicle, impacted them in some negative way (such as forcing them to brake), Otherwise, it's revenue generation, pure and simple.

You don't have to answer the cop's questions about "have you been drinking" or "how many drinks have you had", and you don't have to submit to those field sobriety tests, and there's no penalties if you refuse to submit to them. You do, however, suffer penalty if you refuse a breathalyzer test.

driver100

jmonroe said:

js06gv said:

graphicguy said:

Small Weber...propane. I think I paid $500. 11 yrs old and still going strong.

I second the Weber. Mine is the Genesis direct propane (hooks to house line) and I love it. I was apprehensive about spending $700 on a grille but when I did the math on the $200-300 grilles I had been replacing every 3-5 years it was well worth the spend. Have had it for 7 years now and I've only been through a set of grates, but that was more personal preference than anything else. They probably could've made it another couple of years.

So, you cook with a Genny, huh?

When my Charbroil konks out I'll have to try a Genny grill. I've heard good things about them too.

Just hope I can afford another heavily depreciating appliance.

jmonroe

Or if the Genny konks out first you can use it as the BBQ;


You win either way.

driver100

Mr_Shiftright said:

fintail said:

That might be why he is put off by complex cars. It's hard to guess and check your way out of a problem in a 2006 MB with airmatic.

Mr_Shiftright said:

Scotty is a character but I think he borders on the "guess and replace" school of auto repair.

Exactly. That's why he has a video "Don't Buy a Used Mercedes". He can't handle it, so he fears it.

I watched that video and it was really silly. I would say you nailed it....he wants people to buy cars he is capable of fixing in his old style basic garage.

driver100

houdini1

houdini1 said:

Most people can't tell that new E Class from a C Class.

Michaell said:

They'll know the difference when they see what each costs....about $12 to $20k more for the E!

jmonroe

This is a first for me and I have not heard of anyone in here telling a similar story.

A little history first, and yes, this tale will be over 150 words.

I went to the grocery store with Mrs. j this afternoon. I don't usually go to the grocery store at all unless I lose the coin toss but she has a sore right shoulder (pops up every now and then and this was the "now" day for her) so I complied with her request even though I tried to get out of it first.

It started by her saying, "if you were a nice husband you wouldn't try to get out of this". I said, "if you were as tough as you think you are you would take a couple Tylenol and go a little later". That almost led to another trip around the dining room table, so, I caved.

Here is the real story and it is car related:

After we check out and I'm finished loading the trunk, I'm pushing the empty cart up a small grade to the return station further up on the left which is the same side where the car is parked. I'm as close to the bumpers of the cars to my left as I dare get. I notice a car going up on the other side pretty fast for a grocery store parking lot and just shook my head.

This car turns around and is now barreling down the side where I am. I see the guy (in his 40's) on his cell phone not paying attention about 30 feet in front of me. I know he's going to hit the cart then the cart is going to hit me so I pushed the cart forward and at the same time I jumped between 2 parked cars on my left. BAM, he hits the cart and drives it into the right rear of a newer Accord that had no cars parked to its right. This causes a dent in the right rear bumper cover and then the cart slides along the right side of the car causing some mighty nasty scratches along the right rear quarter panel and both doors. Stops just short of taking out the right front fender.

Just by chance the guy that owns the Accord is about 25 feet behind me and sees this all happening.

The guy that drove the older SUV that did the damage gets out of his SUV screaming that I pushed my cart into the path of his SUV and that is why the cart hit the Accord. Not true, and the owner of the Accord tells the SUV guy that's not the way he saw it. AND a women on the other side of the aisle says the same thing. There is now a crowd of about 10 people looking on as the SUV guy is still in his screaming tirade.

The owner of the Accord had to have the police number on speed dial and he's now reporting what happened. About 3 minutes later a cop pulls up and here is some of that conversation:

Cop: Anybody hurt?

Everyone says no.

Cop: What happened?

The Accord guy and the SUV guy start talking at the same time.

Cop: One at a time. Who owns the SUV?

SUV guy speaks up and says me.

Cop: Looks like your car was the only one moving. Right?

SUV guy: Yes.

Cop: Were you on your cell phone.

SUV guy: No.

I quickly interject.

Me: Yes he was.

SUV guy: You calling me a liar.

Me: If your going to hold that you weren't on your phone, yes I am.

Accord owner: I saw him on his phone too.

Cop: I can check that out easily enough so let's drop that part of this for now.

Women on the other side of the aisle: I saw him on the phone too.

Cop: This isn't looking too good for you fella.

The cop gathers all the facts and our names, addresses and phone numbers (Accord guy, SUV guy, me and the woman. Not the other onlookers). He then says, "if this goes to court are any of you willing to appear and give your testimony as you have stated it to me? Both me and the women say "yes".

Cop talking to me.

Cop: Since you were pushing the cart you may HAVE to appear because you were somewhat involved.

Me: Fine.

That is all I'm going to bother you with but there was a lot more talking.

If it wasn't for my athleticism you guys could have lost me today to a freak grocery store parking lot accident. Some may look at that as the end of long posts but I'm happy to have been able to tell it.

And all of this because I gave into Mrs. j's request that I accompany her to the grocery store.

jmonroe

ab348

But what kind of peanut butter did you purchase?

Who knew that grocery shopping could be so dangerous!

I'll give you a pass for not thinking of letting him bunt the cart into you so you could (a) get a fat settlement and (b) be excused from grocery schlepping for an indefinite period of time.

suydam

Glad you're ok. Grocery parking lots are a nightmare! Usually the police don't issue citations in private parking lots. It will be the insurance companies duking it out. And since he was the only moving vehicle he will be declared at fault.

oldfarmer50

jmonroe said:

This is a first for me and I have not heard of anyone in here telling a similar story.

A little history first, and yes, this tale will be over 150 words.

I went to the grocery store with Mrs. j this afternoon. I don't usually go to the grocery store at all unless I lose the coin toss but she has a sore right shoulder (pops up every now and then and this was the "now" day for her) so I complied with her request even though I tried to get out of it first.

It started by her saying, "if you were a nice husband you wouldn't try to get out of this". I said, "if you were as tough as you think you are you would take a couple Tylenol and go a little later". That almost led to another trip around the dining room table, so, I caved.

Here is the real story and it is car related:

After we check out and I'm finished loading the trunk, I'm pushing the empty cart up a small grade to the return station further up on the left which is the same side where the car is parked. I'm as close to the bumpers of the cars to my left as I dare get. I notice a car going up on the other side pretty fast for a grocery store parking lot and just shook my head.

This car turns around and is now barreling down the side where I am. I see the guy (in his 40's) on his cell phone not paying attention about 30 feet in front of me. I know he's going to hit the cart then the cart is going to hit me so I pushed the cart forward and at the same time I jumped between 2 parked cars on my left. BAM, he hits the cart and drives it into the right rear of a newer Accord that had no cars parked to its right. This causes a dent in the right rear bumper cover and then the cart slides along the right side of the car causing some mighty nasty scratches along the right rear quarter panel and both doors. Stops just short of taking out the right front fender.

Just by chance the guy that owns the Accord is about 25 feet behind me and sees this all happening.

The guy that drove the older SUV that did the damage gets out of his SUV screaming that I pushed my cart into the path of his SUV and that is why the cart hit the Accord. Not true, and the owner of the Accord tells the SUV guy that's not the way he saw it. AND a women on the other side of the aisle says the same thing. There is now a crowd of about 10 people looking on as the SUV guy is still in his screaming tirade.

The owner of the Accord had to have the police number on speed dial and he's now reporting what happened. About 3 minutes later a cop pulls up and here is some of that conversation:

Cop: Anybody hurt?

Everyone says no.

Cop: What happened?

The Accord guy and the SUV guy start talking at the same time.

Cop: One at a time. Who owns the SUV?

SUV guy speaks up and says me.

Cop: Looks like your car was the only one moving. Right?

SUV guy: Yes.

Cop: Were you on your cell phone.

SUV guy: No.

I quickly interject.

Me: Yes he was.

SUV guy: You calling me a liar.

Me: If your going to hold that you weren't on your phone, yes I am.

Accord owner: I saw him on his phone too.

Cop: I can check that out easily enough so let's drop that part of this for now.

Women on the other side of the aisle: I saw him on the phone too.

Cop: This isn't looking too good for you fella.

The cop gathers all the facts and our names, addresses and phone numbers (Accord guy, SUV guy, me and the woman. Not the other onlookers). He then says, "if this goes to court are any of you willing to appear and give your testimony as you have stated it to me? Both me and the women say "yes".

Cop talking to me.

Cop: Since you were pushing the cart you may HAVE to appear because you were somewhat involved.

Me: Fine.

That is all I'm going to bother you with but there was a lot more talking.

If it wasn't for my athleticism you guys could have lost me today to a freak grocery store parking lot accident. Some may look at that as the end of long posts but I'm happy to have been able to tell it.

And all of this because I gave into Mrs. j's request that I accompany her to the grocery store.

jmonroe

Better watch your back, that guy sounds like he wouldn't be above a little witness intimidation. They might find you in the river tied to a shopping cart.

On the positive side you can always refuse to take your wife shopping again out of fear for your life.

tbirdmarco

https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=INwYsIpnoMI

thebean

Doggone it @jmonroe, I paid good money to that "hit man" in the SUV to take you out.  Curse your Vulcan athleticism.  Now we're going to have to pay for that poor guy's Accord damage.  

jmonroe

driver100 said:

jmonroe said:

js06gv said:

graphicguy said:

Small Weber...propane. I think I paid $500. 11 yrs old and still going strong.

I second the Weber. Mine is the Genesis direct propane (hooks to house line) and I love it. I was apprehensive about spending $700 on a grille but when I did the math on the $200-300 grilles I had been replacing every 3-5 years it was well worth the spend. Have had it for 7 years now and I've only been through a set of grates, but that was more personal preference than anything else. They probably could've made it another couple of years.

So, you cook with a Genny, huh?

When my Charbroil konks out I'll have to try a Genny grill. I've heard good things about them too.

Just hope I can afford another heavily depreciating appliance.

jmonroe

Or if the Genny konks out first you can use it as the BBQ;


ou win either way.

How long did it take for you to realize that I'm a winner.

If you followed my lead you'd be on my team.

jmonroe