well this is no good--(for me anyway) [Archive] - Page 2

gray wolf

03-17-2010, 07:42 PM

Hi guys!

GW and I have been talking together about how wonderful you all are in doing this for us. You don't really know how much it means to us. We have been without a truck for about 3 weeks now. we have someone to call if we need a ride to town and he has been checking the PO for our mail.
We want to tell you something about where we live. We live in rural, Western Maine in the mountains. There is a small town of about 50 people or so 7 miles away where our mail gets delivered to. The next larger town has a pop of about 1000
The closest place to catch a bus or plane is around 3 hours away. There is a small airport in town but only small single or double engine planes can land there or on one of the lakes if you have floats. :bigsmyl2:
We have been looking for a truck online thru Craig's list, Uncle Henry's and Auto Trader for the past two weeks or so. I look every morning and again before bed to see what is newly listed.
The guy who has the truck we posted about last night is a wholesaler from Southern New Hampshire. He is not a dealership. He sells cars and trucks that he picks up thru auctions and if they are really nice, he offers them to the public.
we thought his offer to bring up that truck and give us $400 for our truck was something that would solve many of the problems that have come up.
As it solves our problem of getting one here and disposing of the old truck (which still could be parted out, if need be)

But considering where we live, most of the dealerships are at least 2 hours from us down in Auburn or Augusta or Portland. The smaller ones do not have online advertising unless they use Craig's list or something. So we are limited in where to look for a truck to buy.
I want to call a couple dealers and see if they would deliver a truck up here for us. I doubt they would take our old truck but we will give it a try. The wholesaler also has a junk yard so he can actually use our truck for scrap. He is in Portsmouth NH.
3 hours away from us.
I know this was a long post and I apologize for that but we thought we should explain things better about our situation.
We have not given up looking in fact only started. I know there is a truck out there.
And you folk are wonderful for helping us to get one. I can't wait to put those new Cast Boolet stickers on the truck. (thanks to 45nut) [smilie=s:

If you have question, ask away. I promise we will answer them.

dragonrider

03-17-2010, 07:50 PM

Grey Wolf, are you anywhere near Mexico? or Byron. ??

gray wolf

03-17-2010, 07:57 PM

Gw here--

Yes we are 25 MIN. from byron and about half hour to 40 MIN. to Mexico.
Rt. 17 South along the Swift river

Village Idiot

03-18-2010, 02:38 AM

GW & Julie
You’re not as far up as I thought you were. I was picturing you up in the Allagash area for some reason. I live in southwestern NH (on the weekends anyway) but work in Rochester NH close to Portsmouth during the week. If there is anything I can do to help let me know. If you need a ride to pick up a rig or need something delivered I am more than happy to help. The wife can follow me and get me back home. Not sure what I can do to help getting rid of the old one but don’t want you to feel isolate up there. I don’t want you to feel you have to find something that needs to be delivered. I want you to feel you have as many options as possible in your search. I am not a mechanic and don’t feel I can evaluate for you but willing to do some leg work if you want to get something checked out by another mechanic and get a face to face evaluation. Whatever you need, speak up. If I can help I am more than happy to.

V.I.

dragonrider

03-18-2010, 09:13 AM

12 or 15 years ago I spent a couple weeks and some weekends hunting in Byron, my friends brother in law owned a cabin there, the cabin was literaly falling down but it kept the weather off us. Byron is the kind of town I would like to live in. There is a pretty impressive gorge of the Swift river right in town. Never saw a whitetail the entire time.

gray wolf

03-18-2010, 09:30 AM

VI, that is a very nice gesture and we appreciate the offer. When things get a bit more firm we may be able to use your help.

Dragonrider. Byron probably hasn't changed since you were up here. Still very small and the gorge is deep and running now. And the lack of whitetails is not surprising. They come out "after" hunting season is over.

gray wolf

03-18-2010, 12:49 PM

You guys got us thinking about having a mechanic look over any truck we might get. I just talked to the guy in NH with the F150 and he said no problem. He had already had his mechanic look it all over and changed the fluids on it so he was ok with an inspection by our guy doing it if/when they brought a truck up here for us. Seems like an up front guy to work with so far.

obssd1958

03-18-2010, 04:38 PM

The total collected as of today, through Paypal, Checks, and Money orders (including the amounts sent directly to Mr. and Mrs. Gray Wolf) is

$3644.54

Thanks so much for everything so far folks!!!

Don

mroliver77

03-18-2010, 05:21 PM

We need to reach just a bit deeper! I have give till it hurts but will find a bit more. I want to head to DC to protest this weekend.Hopefully I can get both done.
Jay

gray wolf

03-18-2010, 06:51 PM

Jay, protest a bit for us too if you make it to DC? We are very upset over what they are trying to do to the country.

And thanks for your efforts otherwise on our behalf. I wish I could hug all you guys.

Julie

SwedeNelson

03-18-2010, 07:28 PM

obssd1958 (Don)

Pay-Pal sent

Swede Nelson

longranger

03-18-2010, 09:38 PM

If anybody is interested in purchasing a very nice T/C Renegade with 2 barrels I have it listed it the "Swappin and Sellin" section.All proceeds(monies) go to the Gray Wolf Family and I am paying the shipping.

bruce drake

03-19-2010, 09:48 AM

I just jumped on an auction for a $75 AR Flattop upper that LoneWelder posted. I'll send the money out as soon as I get the proper address to do it.

I grew up in Dover over in Piscataquis County and yeah, the winters are rough on vehicles up there so I'm glad to help out a fellow Mainiac.

Bruce

45-70 Chevroner

03-19-2010, 11:14 AM

I'm in PM me the address. Any of us could be in the same shape.

hoosierlogger

03-19-2010, 12:24 PM

I'm in PM me the address. Any of us could be in the same shape.

The contact info is in post# 52

45-70 Chevroner

03-19-2010, 02:36 PM

Maybe this is not nessessary but at an average of 20 posts per page and so far 14 pages and an everage of $20.00 dollars for each (I know some can't afford that much but some are talking more) post that comes out to a pretty hefty some and should buy a nice pickup. I'm all for this one. I just hope I'm never in this position. It is embarrassing but there is now reason to be. We are family and with out family what else is there. I know a lot about family as I have 28 grand childern 5 of those are grandchildren inlaws and 2 great grand children and only 3 childern those three are the ones to blame. You should see our Christmas bill and birthday bills. Not to mention "grandpa or dad! can you help us out"

dogbert41

03-19-2010, 02:58 PM

Just Paypalled, been a LONG TIME, hope I did it right!

Post of pick of what you get, Gray Wolf!

SciFiJim

03-19-2010, 09:07 PM

My bit added via PayPal.

Sam & Julie, keep your heads up. You have family here.

Wayne Smith

03-19-2010, 09:20 PM

Paypal sent tonite. Sam and Judy, use it well. Best wishes from both of us.

obssd1958

03-19-2010, 11:27 PM

Sorry this is late tonight, been busy today!

The total collected as of today, through Paypal, Checks, and Money orders (including the amounts sent directly to Mr. and Mrs. Gray Wolf) is

$4559.54

With the auctions and other funds that have been sent, but not received yet, we will be well over the $5000 that was suggested as a goal.
I talked to Mr. and Mrs. Gray Wolf tonight, and they are unable to come up with words that would convey to you all, how much you have touched them, and what this means to them. They did want me to pass on a PM that they sent to me:

I want to make a suggestion and I want some help on it
I would like it from as many of my friends here as possible.
My thoughts are to take the last auction or swap and sell date and say that is the last day of fund raising for us.
I say this because I don't know what else to say,
As good as all this makes us feel --at the same time I feel bad that so many are doing so much, and many have so little.
Help me out here men --what say you as to what to do.
We leave it in your hands, ---Should we stop on the last auction date or swap sell date ?
You all have chosen to help us and I choose to abide by your decision on this.
SAM

I agree with Sam, and propose that next Wednesday, the 24th, be the last day for fund raising - with Friday the 26th as the target for trying to get all funds to either myself or Sam.

Meantime, they are looking for a "new to them" truck to put their new Cast Boolits stickers on!!

Don

Sprintcardriver

03-20-2010, 12:08 AM

Paypal sent. this afternoon. Best of luck..

Sprintcardriver

sleeper1428

03-20-2010, 03:37 AM

PayPal on the way. GW, keep your chin up. There are a great bunch of guys on this forum who want to help you over the rough spot you're in right now.

sleeper1428

snowtigger

03-20-2010, 04:55 AM

I hate to throw a monkey wrench into this party, BUT,the *&&%@%^$#*&%# IRS is going to want to treat this as income, and expect to collect taxes. The other Gremlin in the the works is food stamps. I believe you have to report on "cash on hand". Too much money and they will deny food stamps.
I believe we can avoid IRS by keeping all donations as "small gifts". I believe there is a threshold above which one has to declare gifts as income.
Perhaps someone who s more familiar with Tax Law can weigh in on this. I think this is a great bunch of people trying to do a great thing, so lets try to avoid giving Mr& Mrs GW more troubles.
PS; I hope I am wrong. I guess I am just a worrier by nature. AND I don't trust IRS!!

looseprojectile

03-20-2010, 06:48 AM

I would like to see Sam and Julie get at least as good a truck as the red 99 Ford XLT 4X4 shown earlier. Looks like they have been without wheels long enough.
That dealer seems to be willing to go the extra mile to help these folks.
[While helping himself of course]. I think Sam must really like the Ford. A couple of years ago we got my wife a Chrysler 300. I never was a Mopar man but these late model cars have whistles and bells we are still discovering and it is the most reliable vehicle we have ever had. Makes me smile when I drive it. My first car was a model A Ford coupe.
I have a 93 Chev 4X4 and don't know what I would do without it or something similar. The later model pickups are really nice. Not your daddys truck.
I am as anxious as they are to see Sam and Julie enjoy their new-er truck.
If they buy that truck and have money left I would be pleased that they would enjoy having a little bonus. Sam could maybe even get a cast boolit shooter and Julie deserves something nice too:D.

Life is good

hoosierlogger

03-20-2010, 07:59 AM

Thumbcocker

03-20-2010, 08:27 AM

Don't know about food stamps but I think gift taxs start at over 10,000. Not sure. I am sure that there are people on this list who are accountans or have connections to accountants who could tell us. I know the IRS has a web site maybe a FAQ section there? I am on my way into the office so I wont ba able to check todsy maybe someone else could. FWIW.

gray wolf

03-20-2010, 08:38 AM

Still looking but this from H&R block

If you gave someone gifts valued more than $13,000 (for 2009 and 2010), you must report the total amount of gifts to the IRS and may have to pay tax on the gifts. If you or your spouse make a gift to a third party, the gift can be considered as made half by you and half by your spouse (known as gift splitting). Gift splitting can allow you to claim a larger exclusion. For example, if in 2009 you made a $20,000 gift to an individual, you can exclude only $13,000. But if you elect gift splitting, both you and your spouse can exclude $10,000, for a $20,000 total exclusion.

The person who receives your gift doesn't have to report it to the IRS or pay gift or income tax on its value.

It looks like if you give a gift over $13,000 you have to report it.
BUT you do not have to report a gift if you are the one who receive the gift.

rockrat

03-20-2010, 09:35 AM

Yup, and that is $13,000 per person, so with how many here that have donated, not anywhere near the limit of what is allowed, and GW doesn't have to report it as income.
Also, the "cash on hand" shouldn't be a problem, I would think, as he isn't going to have it in hand for long!!
Hope you find a good P/U. That Ford (gag, choke, hack :)) might be a good one for you, maybe you can find a good local mech to give it a once over to see if it is worth it.

Glad this has all come together for GW and Julie. A fine family we have here!!

largom

03-20-2010, 10:19 AM

squid1230

03-20-2010, 11:49 AM

Gray Wolf and members et al. Though I have been fortunate in life and never suffered as you do now, I am aware it could be just around the corner. Asking for help is often the hardest thing a man ever has to do. With that in mind, please accept a humble donation from your Canadian brother.

All the best,
Toby

milsurp mike

03-20-2010, 12:12 PM

Man I am really proud of our Members.This is unbelievable.I was beginning to think our whole country was BUNK before this happened.I now know the quality of our Members.Something to be proud of.Mike

257 Shooter

03-20-2010, 01:46 PM

This just shows again how much better individuals can help someone than any government!

montana_charlie

03-20-2010, 03:03 PM

I want to make a suggestion and I want some help on it
I would like it from as many of my friends here as possible.
My thoughts are to take the last auction or swap and sell date and say that is the last day of fund raising for us.

You all have chosen to help us and I choose to abide by your decision on this.
SAM

I agree with Sam, and propose that next Wednesday, the 24th, be the last day for fund raising - with Friday the 26th as the target for trying to get all funds to either myself or Sam.

Don
It is my opinion that we must accept the proposal detailed above.

It started as Grey Wolf's idea and request, and it is supported by Don...who did not volunteer to sign on for a 'summer project'.

The amount raised to date is enough to get a decent truck, and the incoming funds from benefit sales and auctions would be icing on a cake that is already pretty tasty.

If the 24th is going to be the accepted deadline for donations, we have some time to encourage a few more to make direct contributions. Whatever amount is available at that time can be used by Gray Wolf to deal with a seller...knowing a bit more will flow in when payments from the auctions and sales finally arrive from those purchasers and winners.

The point is...on March 24th (a day that will live in infamy)...Gray Wolf will know how much solid ground he is standing on, in order to make a firm commitment to a seller. He'll know 'how much' and 'when' it will be available to him.
When the rest filters in, he can use it for associated incidentals.

So, Sam (Gray Wolf) made the motion and Don seconded it.
If there are no objections, the 24th will be 'The End'.

CM

Recluse

03-20-2010, 03:31 PM

I agree Charlie.

However, once we have our final amount so that Sam & Julie can begin negotiating deals, that doesn't necessarily mean the help has to stop.

I just dropped in the mail today an envelope to Sam & Julie with some "lunch money" in it. This is separate from the truck fund and as I put in the letter, is meant to be entirely used for their own enjoyment.

As I explained, once they get the new truck, they'll need to perform a number of test drives--and with the dogs, of course. :)

Don't know about the rest of y'all, but every time the wife and I went out on such drives, we tended to get a little hungry. So hence, the lunch money.

Boolit casters are an independent lot, but we're also a loyal-to-each-other lot.

Sam/Julie--I'm looking forward to a ride in that truck during our next visit to Maine. I'll even ride in the back seat with the dogs--and lunch, again, is on me. And I promise to try and not be too ill-tempered. :)

:coffee:

gray wolf

03-20-2010, 04:30 PM

Recluse, you take your life into your own hands crawling into the back with these two kissie faces. They will wash your face, your hands and tell you tall stories, [smilie=l:

Village Idiot

03-20-2010, 05:38 PM

+1 to the 24th. However, I do want to say that if any issue comes up that was unplanned (taxes, insurance, registration, etc) that may become a road block to getting your new wheels please speak up.

Sam and Julie, my heart goes out to you and the situation you are dealing with. However, I want to thank you for allowing me to help and drawing this community together. It has been very depressing watching what’s going on in our country. I was losing faith that the values I was brought up on and made this country the greatest place on earth (in all history) was gone. That this country had finally turned the corner becoming the next great progressive, socialist, communist, utopian, dream (read that as whining sheep that look to an oppressive, controlling, government for all our needs). That self reliance, rugged individualism, and neighbor helping neighbor was gone. You have made me realize I am not alone in my beliefs and with that there is still real hope (not hope as defined by our leaders). Thank you for renewing my faith.

Good luck with your truck search. If that Ford is still available when all is settled and you want it, go for it. If in your search you need help getting somewhere, something delivered, or anything else I may be able to help with please do not hesitate to ask.

Best Wishes
V.I.

Recluse

03-20-2010, 05:50 PM

Recluse, you take your life into your own hands crawling into the back with these two kissie faces. They will wash your face, your hands and tell you tall stories, [smilie=l:

Heh heh. I'll take my chances. :) And, I'll take whatever stories they tell about you and the missus with a grain of salt. :wink:

Village Idiot, you summed up my own thoughts and feelings perfectly. Very well said, sir. Very well said.

:coffee:

Boz330

03-20-2010, 06:12 PM

Done. What goes around comes around. I had some friends help me out 15 years ago in some bad times so it is time to pay it forward a little bit.

Bob

obssd1958

03-20-2010, 10:36 PM

The total collected as of today, through Paypal, Checks, and Money orders (including the amounts sent directly to Mr. and Mrs. Gray Wolf) is

$4864.54

I'm running out of superlatives to describe you folks......

:-D:-D:-D:-D

Don

mroliver77

03-20-2010, 11:48 PM

I have I think $140. coming yet from auctions. That puts us a tad over $5000. Yippee!!!
Jay

obssd1958

03-21-2010, 07:19 PM

Well, it's been a fairly quiet Sunday. A time to thank the Lord for all the things he brings us. A time to be thankful for our family and friends.

The total collected as of today, through Paypal, Checks, and Money orders (including the amounts sent directly to Mr. and Mrs. Gray Wolf) is

$5009.54 [smilie=w::holysheep[smilie=w::cbpour:

You all have done it!! We've broken $5000.00!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Thank you ALL!!!!

Don

462

03-21-2010, 07:28 PM

Ain't that something!!

crazy mark

03-22-2010, 12:11 AM

I sent some $$'s just now. I hope they can get everything needed for the newer truck. Mark

nvbirdman

03-22-2010, 01:23 AM

We did this all in eleven days. A big pat on the back for everybody.

oldhickory

03-22-2010, 04:52 AM

I have I think $140. coming yet from auctions. That puts us a tad over $5000. Yippee!!!
Jay

My auction money is on it's way to Don today!:Fire:

PatMarlin

03-22-2010, 05:16 AM

That is just incredible. What a day... :Fire:

We give and help for our own and Obama takes away more of our freedom today with the "Historic health care scam"... :roll:

oldhickory

03-22-2010, 07:12 AM

That is just incredible. What a day... :Fire:

We give and help for our own and Obama takes away more of our freedom today with the "Historic health care scam"... :roll:

Just goes to prove who the better men are, Pat.

Greenhorn44

03-22-2010, 09:40 AM

A Revolution is among us. More and more people are going to be driven into our beloved Grey Wolf's situation. I dont think we are far from trade and barter. I know me and my wife are scared about this Health care reform. My wife is a 3rd year medical student, we are looking at a 250,000 dollar student loan when all is said and done. I dont know If we will ever get the chance to pay it off. Obama has really screwed things up for all of us.
I own an online retail store www.thegoodcompany.com and we get most of our merchandise from auctions. I destroy all the bootleg, porn, L. ron hubbard, etc.... for good measures for the "Big Guy in the Sky." Which really cuts into my profits. All said and done, sales really stink right now.
Also have a donation foundation. www.thetomorrowfoundation.com. helping tomorrows kids today. Where I donate video libraries and personal dvd players to the areas Hospital's so families can forget for a moment where thay are at.
Been doing this since 05' and since all the obama stuff, it has slowly burnt out. I was really praying that this bill didnt get past, but it has, and now we all have to deal with the outcome.
I have been forced to sell out of the back of my truck. In real bad parts of town.
I dont have any money Greywolf but perhaps I can offer you alittle sit down time for you and your family.Go to my website. www.thegoodcompany.com, Just let me know what your want and it's yours. You can email me your info at grbmllr@yahoo.com.

shooterg

03-22-2010, 12:33 PM

Amazing people here that understand that help for good people should come from the heart and not always from Big Government. Big hand from me to Don for giving us the opportunity to share , and best of everything to Mr. & Mrs. Grey Wolf .

longranger

03-22-2010, 01:44 PM

Well I think we have a buyer for the T/C Renegade 2 barrels, I have offered it to him for $500.00 and me paying the shipping.
I want the buyer to send the M.O. to who ever is handling the finances,could someone please pm me with that info.I really want this to get done in the shortest amount of time possible.
This is the most awesome "helping a unknown freind" I have ever been apart of.
I respect every one of you MEN for doing this.
I am in awe.
Randy

mroliver77

03-22-2010, 02:03 PM

Randy, I stand in awe of you!!I dont have the words to say how you all blow me away! In so many on this board!!
My 9 year old daughter loves to shoot and cast, etc. She also likes to read the posts to me. SLOWLY, ans asks questions when she does not understand something. We have read posts and talked about GW and Julie. We have prayed for those donating (and receiving!) We have cried feeling the love all you'all have.
We ask at Sun school for prayer requests or praises before beginning each week. I told how this was shaking out here. Some looked a little puzzled at helping computer family but we prayed for the effort and all involved. Before I left class Calvin and Marybelle Smith stopped me and handed me a five dollar bill. "please add this to the fund and bless you all" they said. I just thought you all might like to hear this.
Jay

Well I think we have a buyer for the T/C Renegade 2 barrels, I have offered it to him for $500.00 and me paying the shipping.
I want the buyer to send the M.O. to who ever is handling the finances,could someone please pm me with that info.I really want this to get done in the shortest amount of time possible.
This is the most awesome "helping a unknown freind" I have ever been apart of.
I respect every one of you MEN for doing this.
I am in awe.
Randy

buck1

03-22-2010, 03:32 PM

""This is the most awesome "helping a unknown freind" I have ever been apart of.
I respect every one of you MEN for doing this.
I am in awe.
Randy""

Restores my faith in my fellow man!! Great job everyone!!!!!!!! I am proud as all get out to be part of this group!...Buck

Greenhorn44

03-22-2010, 03:43 PM

Amen, Brothers.[smilie=w:

longranger

03-22-2010, 05:59 PM

Over 10,000 views on this subject, is that a record of some kind for castboolits.com

RugerFan

03-22-2010, 06:23 PM

Over 10,000 views on this subject, is that a record of some kind for castboolits.com

Nope. Pat Marlin's thread "We need a .224 cal group buy mold!!" has over 22,000 views. I'm guessing that is the record holder.

mroliver77

03-22-2010, 06:36 PM

Nope. Pat Marlin's thread "We need a .224 cal group buy mold!!" has over 22,000 views. I'm guessing that is the record holder.
But Pat posted 18000 of them. Does that count?
Jay

mroliver77

03-22-2010, 06:50 PM

This is one nice thing about folks helping folks. Let the government try to help and first the would have to appoint a committee to look at it and then hire a firm to study it. A lemonade tax would be saddled onto the back of highway funding bill. A study of its effects on blobal warming needing done Is there any ethnic hatred involved. It could take years, many millions of dollars,politicians rising and being crushed by it. Meanwhile Gray Wolf is a getting grayer has not been to his mailbox in 12 years. Yep, I am glad someone spoke up.
Jay

Bad Water Bill

03-22-2010, 07:28 PM

It should be a record.

Pat's thread spanned MANY months. This was done in just a few days.

Glad to have been a part of both.[smilie=w:

obssd1958

03-22-2010, 08:12 PM

theperfessor

03-22-2010, 09:46 PM

Maybe I'm going a little off topic here, and if I sound out of line please let me know, I'm not trying to be crass about this or treat somebody's needs casually or disrespectfully, but I want to make this observation.

For a few weeks, ending about a week-and-a-half ago, this forum/site was becoming as fractious and nit-picky and testy as I can ever recall. I've only been a member here for a few years and I've seen particular threads get a little "enthusiastic" in the posts, but never the all around crabbiness that seemed to pervade things. Then Gray Wolf and his lady let us know that they could use a little help, and it seemed like the whole attitude here changed, Instead of pulling apart we're pulling together again. We can drop the pettiness to take care of one our own. We can focus on what unites us instead of what divides us.

Kinda makes you examine your politics, your soul and your own circumstances, and to "put your money where your mouth is", doesn't it?

longranger

03-22-2010, 10:01 PM

I think everybody who participated in this endeavor saw themselves as potentially vulnerable as Mr&Mrs. Gray Wolf. And perhaps more than a few have been there and done that.And accepted the generosity of others who in kind returned the gift.:drinks:

shdwlkr

03-22-2010, 10:16 PM

theperfessor
I think that spirited discussion is very good in any aspect of life including what we talk about here.
Mr &Mrs Gray Wolf had the real life come and bite them and many of us here could relate and see that a few bucks put in their pockets wasn't going to put us in the poor house so we stepped up and helped one of our own. If we don't step up and help our friends when we can who is going to help us when we need it?
For the most part we have a great group and most of us are more than willing to help if we know for what reason. Many of us have seen our own dreams shattered with the stock market joke, the bailouts that helped very few and a government that has no use for the people and the people are sticking together because we are all we have anymore as the government is hell bent on making us a socialist nation with no freedoms at all.
I will get off my soapbox and go eat my milk and cookies

giz189

03-22-2010, 10:20 PM

Recluse

03-22-2010, 10:36 PM

For a few weeks, ending about a week-and-a-half ago, this forum/site was becoming as fractious and nit-picky and testy as I can ever recall. I've only been a member here for a few years and I've seen particular threads get a little "enthusiastic" in the posts, but never the all around crabbiness that seemed to pervade things. Then Gray Wolf and his lady let us know that they could use a little help, and it seemed like the whole attitude here changed, Instead of pulling apart we're pulling together again. We can drop the pettiness to take care of one our own. We can focus on what unites us instead of what divides us.

Probably gonna show my age a bit, but it reminds me of a portion of the words to a great Charlie Daniels song called In America.

From the sound up in Long Island out to San Francisco Bay
And ev'ry thing that's in between them is our home
And we may have done a little bit of fighting amongst ourselves
But you outside people best leave us alone
Cause we'll all stick together and you can take that to the bank
That's the cowboys and the hippies and the rebels and the yanks
You just go and lay your head on a Cast Boolits Man
And I think you're gonna finally understand

:coffee:

mroliver77

03-23-2010, 12:16 AM

Well by golly, I hope you all find me a gentleman even on my worst days.
Stop and think of what the good perfessor says.We can be this tight and civil 24/7. Historically I could get in a scuffle pretty easy. I got out of a pickup once and punched the guy in the next vehicle in the cake hole. I then grabbed his keys and threw them into some bushes in front of a church beside the road. This is not to tell how "tough" I was or am but what a ....... This is a forum about cast boolits and most of us are passionate about our little silver jewels. Some of us have "strong" personalities and some are also very prideful. Some are very full of themselves!! I have found no time here yet that I needed to trash someone or their mother over believes related to casting and shooting boolits. I have ben ignoring more and more posts by members whose knowledge far exceeds mine and that is a shame. Somehow I will stumble along without their input.

I did not get to pick my blood telatives and have wrote most of them off. I picked you'all.
Jay

obssd1958

03-23-2010, 12:48 AM

It's all explained in a concept that has been forgotten by a lot of people, but not here...

Do unto others as you would have them do unto you

I see the people here being selfless, generous, and caring. Not only with this effort, but with their knowledge, skills, and expertise, on a daily basis. No place I would rather be.

Don

jcwit

03-23-2010, 09:11 AM

Yes the tone here has really turned the corner, now if I can just keep my attidude on the right track, (my opinions also). I realize that a portion of MY problems is meds. To high sugar and I really get grumpy, wife usually lets me know.

largom

03-23-2010, 09:19 AM

...and the blessings continue...

The total collected as of today, through Paypal, Checks, and Money orders (including the amounts sent directly to Mr. and Mrs. Gray Wolf) is

$5894.54

This place is amazing!

Don

Passed the Moon and the stars are getting closer! However the job is not completely done, we still need to find a vehicle. Is that Ford still available?

gray wolf

03-23-2010, 11:18 AM

The Ford is gone. Still looking.

257 Shooter

03-23-2010, 11:24 AM

I bet that the guy that had the Ford will have something else just as good soon. Keep after 'em GW.

largom

03-23-2010, 12:35 PM

The Ford is gone. Still looking.

Have you checked "Craigs List"? Another thought, If you tell the dealer what you are looking for he may be able to locate something in the dealer network.

Larry

mroliver77

03-23-2010, 01:06 PM

Gray Wolf,
You need to find a vehicle in time to pick me up in Ohio on your way to Winnemucca shoot later this year!
Jay

gray wolf

03-23-2010, 01:34 PM

Dealer is looking. We check Craig's list twice a day for Maine and the surrounding states.
Also Auto trader and Uncle Henry's, been looking at dealerships too.

My eyes are bleeding.........

Julie

hoosierlogger

03-23-2010, 03:48 PM

Mrs. Grey Wolf needs band aids!!! I am sure we can get you a couple thousand boxes.

oldoak2000

03-23-2010, 05:29 PM

Hadn't been on this site in months!
Glad to have gotten on just in time to beat the 'givin deadline'.
PayPal sent . . .

Love and prayers to ya, mr&mrsGreyWolf!

gray wolf

03-23-2010, 07:30 PM

Hoosier, after you look at a few thousand trucks they start to look alike and swim before your eyes....then you get crosseyed and the pupils bleed profusely.......:coffeecom

Recluse

03-23-2010, 07:54 PM

The Ford is gone. Still looking.

My daddy told me something when I was seventeen that I didn't believe at the time.

I'd found a car I really, really wanted. I thought it was a heckuva deal, and it probably was. Problem was, it cost a bit more than what I had saved up and I would need a (small) loan from the bank. And to get the loan, I had to have my daddy's co-signature.

He said Nope.

I was crushed, furious, panicky and bewildered.

Then he told me that whenever you find the "great deal," if you can at all possibly hold out, you will find an even BETTER deal.

And all these years later, he's been spot-on right. Every car we've bought (we've yet to buy a brand new one) has been the "second" great deal as we either waited too long on the first "great" deal, or someone bought it before we did, etc.

But every single time, the "second" deal was for a superior car. Not always a superior price, but for what we got, dollar-for-dollar, it was a HUGELY better purchase. Same goes with our boat, and a few other mechanical devices. Same for our house we presently live in.

And since she's out of the house this evening, I can even say the same thing about my beloved wife. :) (Along with a hearty Thank God that the first "great" deal left me high and dry over twenty years ago before I put a ring on her finger at the altar.)

Have faith, Mr. and Mrs. Gray Wolf. With cash in hand and more coming, you're in the driver's seat to negotiate and be a bit choosier. You WILL find one heckuva a great deal.

Guaranteed.

:coffee:

SharpsShooter

03-23-2010, 08:39 PM

Great job gentlemen! This little band of brothers have demonstrated the extraordinary beyond the ordinary. Our prayers continue for GW & his Missus.

We may bicker, fuss & cuss now and then, but in time of trouble or need, none of us should feel alone.

SS

shdwlkr

03-23-2010, 08:54 PM

As I listen to how the nation has lost its sense of what is right for the people and not for the few who are in power and feel they can speak for all of us.
Here we have stood up to the challenge and helped one of our own and in just a few days and then our government has turned its back on us the people even when we told them we didn't want something.
I just wonder what will be the next big loss for the citizens of this nation, maybe the right to have and bear arms as the rats in Washington seem to be unstoppable anymore. Nothing seems to stop them not what is right for the nation, not what is the right way to solve a problem and most of not what the people want. Oh well at least I can remember when America wasn't a socialist state.

obssd1958

03-23-2010, 10:51 PM

Bullshop

03-23-2010, 11:26 PM

mroliver77

03-24-2010, 03:55 AM

[QUOTE=

PRAISE THE LORD!!!!!!![/QUOTE]
You said it Brother.
Jay

Down South

03-24-2010, 06:24 AM

I haven't read every post in this thread but the link below is pretty good for finding used cars and trucks. The problem is, I don't know if there is a Carmax close to Gray Wolf. From what I understand, the price they quote is the price you pay. There is no haggling but they do deliver for a fee.
http://www.carmax.com/

gray wolf

03-24-2010, 07:05 AM

Down South, thank you. You just gave me a new place to search. It widens things up a bit.

And a resounding Amen to that Praise the Lord!

largom

03-24-2010, 08:41 AM

The total collected as of today, through Paypal, Checks, and Money orders (including the amounts sent directly to Mr. and Mrs. Gray Wolf) is

$5964.54

...and I know there is more in the pipeline!!

:bigsmyl2:

Don

Mr. & Mrs. Gray Wolf, You are now in the drivers seat! I know that getting a vehicle is urgent but cash money speaks loudly. Do not be afraid to look at something above your price. You can always make an offer. Works for me everytime.
Also, as stated above, the first "great Deal" is probably not the "best deal". Take the time to choose wisely.

I Love A Happy Ending! Larry

shooterg

03-24-2010, 08:53 AM

The rental places like Enterprise in my area, often have some really clean vehicles for sale - most of the trucks they sell never carried a load, so the miles are "easy".

Muddy Creek Sam

03-24-2010, 10:16 AM

AAA has used cars on their website also.

Sam :D

poisonivie

03-24-2010, 12:14 PM

I logged onto here this morning and found this thread. As I started reading I felt a lump in my throat forming. I've been registered here for almost a year but have been here very little. The compassion shown here is miraculous and nothing short of a miracle from God. I couldn't stop till I had read every post. I'm late but I'm going to kick in also. Praise God for people like you in these perilous times.

obssd1958

03-24-2010, 11:55 PM

This was the last official day of fundraising for Mr. and Mrs. Gray Wolf. After this one, I will update this thread with a total on Saturday, and again every couple of days for the next week or so, as the last of the "helping hands" come in.

The total collected as of today, through Paypal, Checks, and Money orders (including the amounts sent directly to Mr. and Mrs. Gray Wolf) is:

$6209.54

:holysheep[smilie=w::lovebooli

I love you guys!!!

Don

John D

03-24-2010, 11:59 PM

I'm late also but a check went out today. I've always said "Shootin' folks are the best". This ordeal proves it!

I hope Sam and Julie can find something nice that will last them for a few years.
Best of luck to both of you!

hoosierlogger

03-25-2010, 05:54 AM

$6209.54

Don

That is outstanding!!!! I am sure there is money still trickling in. They ought to be able to buy a pretty nice truck for $5500 Then have money left over for new tires, tune up, ect.

Way to go gang! The power of teamwork is amazing.

Bret4207

03-25-2010, 06:00 AM

I'd just like to say thanks to all that helped. I have been contacted by PM for Sam and Julies address to the point my in box and sent box need emptying!

What a great bunch! Now do them another favor and keep them, and all of us, in your thoughts and prayers.

shdwlkr

03-25-2010, 01:15 PM

Brett 4207
I pray for this nation and all of us common, tea party like people who really need a miracle right now to save our nation and our way of life.

PatMarlin

03-25-2010, 01:23 PM

Brett 4207
I pray for this nation and all of us common, tea party like people who really need a miracle right now to save our nation and our way of life.

Ain't that the truth.

Us Cast Booliteers really need to stick together now more than ever. They have been allowed to kick down the door, enter, and pursue the "Control of the People".

woody1

03-25-2010, 03:26 PM

That is outstanding!!!! I am sure there is money still trickling in. They ought to be able to buy a pretty nice truck for $5500 Then have money left over for new tires, tune up, ect.

Way to go gang! The power of teamwork is amazing.

Amen! And I think they have to pay sales tax. Regards, Woody

gray wolf

03-25-2010, 06:38 PM

Sales tax, registration, title fee and excise tax.....

Won't know how much for sure until we buy the truck.

wistlepig1

03-25-2010, 07:29 PM

Brett 4207
I pray for this nation and all of us common, tea party like people who really need a miracle right now to save our nation and our way of life.

Amen brother!;-)

gray wolf

03-26-2010, 03:25 PM

Well I thought I would be able to give everyone some happy news today---BUT--
It turned out to be a disaster. I guess Julie and I are just to trusting or perhaps to naive.
We thought we had a truck--The guy from New Hampshire who had the ford had another one-- A 2001 F150 that looked very good---$5,500. We saw Pics and talked on the phone.
Julie made Um-teen calls to the town office to try and get it all set up. He was to show up at 12-PM today at the mechanics place so the truck could be inspected and checked out.
Then all kinds of running around to get all the paper work done. My friend Clyde was on stand by.
Well it's 3:15 pm today and no calls, nothing from him. Julie just got a ride to the store for some food for us and the dogs. She is so let down, and I wont say how I feel.
I could say I just don't understand some people--but then again I do.
People are just not like the people on the forum.
So there goes my surprise for the day. Well it wont get us down, and I will think it was for the best. We will still keep looking and we are not going to let the actions of one crumb bun
get us down. Besides all we have to do is re read all these great posts and it is an instant lift.
We feel like it is more than just for us-- it is like this is a whole team effort and now it's our turn at bat--well we wont let the team down.
I will say more when I know more.
Our thoughts are with all you fine folks, and we give thanks for you all every day.

Your friend

Sam

oldhickory

03-26-2010, 04:02 PM

Hang in there, friend Gray Wolf. Things will work out for the better.:drinks:

bullshot

03-26-2010, 04:33 PM

Fear not-- The best vehicle is yet to come. When it's meant to be it will happen.

hoosierlogger

03-26-2010, 05:37 PM

I know how you feel GW. Yesterday we started tearing down a house trailer I bought at a tax auction. A lady wanted the tie downs to tie her dogs to when they were cleaning their kennels. I told her she could have them, and she said she would be right over to get them. Well today at about 3 PM she showed up to get them, and they were already on their way to the scrap yard. She was irate that I gotten rid of them calling me all kinds of nasty names because she drove for 20 miles to get them and I didnt keep them for her. I told her when she didnt come and get them yesterday I thought she didnt want them any more and scraped them. Some peoples kids. I know its not the same as your situation, but it still sucks when someone dont hold their end of the stick.

shdwlkr

03-26-2010, 06:18 PM

Sam
I was in a wreck earlier this month and just got my truck back from the repair shop and my trailer is still waiting for an axle from the manufacturer.
All good things happen in their own good time, hang in there we are all with you and the wife.
soon you will be able to give us the good news and we will all be happy for you.

gray wolf

03-26-2010, 08:42 PM

don't worry men --it takes more than this to get us down. Just a little set back Eh.

All your help and good words help a lot.

We will stay the course----

Recluse

03-27-2010, 01:38 AM

Mr. & Mrs. Gray Wolf,

You know, often times coming home from a long trip, that last few miles to the house seems to be the longest. But sometimes it's the best part of the trip because you KNOW how glad you're going to be when you finally get home, can get relaxed and kick back a little bit, and know that the trip is over.

This is pretty much where y'all are at--that last few miles.

Relish in the thought that once "home," you can kick back, relax and enjoy.

:coffee:

Village Idiot

03-27-2010, 06:22 AM

GW & Julie
Sorry to hear that but hang in there it just wasn't meant to be. Maybe you should mention that a few thousand of your bullet casting/shooting family are helping with this endeavor. That may turn a few of the loser off right up front. Just Kidding :bigsmyl2:
Keep your chin up! My thoughts and prayers are with you.

V.I.

Ajax

03-27-2010, 07:07 AM

just remember Sam and Julie that karma is an amazing thing. It will only let good happen to those who are good. The truck must have not been good enough for y'all. When it is right it will happen. My thought and prayers are with you .

Andy

mroliver77

03-27-2010, 11:54 AM

One time my Dad bought a farm wagon from a fellow he worked with. The fellow wanted to see our place so he was to deliver it. The day he was to bring it he never showed. He later called and said someone had hit him on the way. We thought "Ya right". He showed up a couple weeks later with a much nicer wagon the ins com had bought to replace it. That was his story. We got a nicer wagon at the same price! Have faith!
Jay

largom

03-27-2010, 01:27 PM

Perhaps the dealer did'nt show up because he KNEW what the mechanic would find!

Down South

03-27-2010, 08:39 PM

Perhaps the dealer didn't show up because he KNEW what the mechanic would find!
Quite possible. There may have been a serious problem that wouldn't show up to the average Joe. That's in your favor that he didn't show. I too believe that you will find the truck that fits your needs. A little patience will be worth its while.

obssd1958

03-28-2010, 12:14 AM

lead4me

03-28-2010, 12:37 AM

WOW !!! I am so glad to see that we stepped up to the plate AN hit a home run. This is great news & I'm sure that a heavy load has been lifted from our friends. It has been a blessing to my family to be able to be a small part of this. My daughter & Wife have come in each to see " how much today daddy" and even brought some money from her bank to send in to help "wolfman" get a truck like mommies.

I found this while looking on autotrader http://www.autotrader.com/fyc/vdp.jsp?ct=u&car_id=269960025&dealer_id=64837723&car_year=1999&rdm=1269749791448&lastStartYear=1981&model=&num_records=25&systime=&make2=&highlightFirstMakeModel=&start_year=1981&keywordsfyc=&keywordsrep=&engine=&certified=&body_code=32&fuel=&awsp=false&search_type=used&distance=300&marketZipError=false&search_lang=en&showZipError=n&make=FORD&keywords_display=&color=&page_location=findacar%3A%3Aispsearchform&min_price=5000&body_style=TRUCKS&drive=&default_sort=priceDESC&seller_type=b&max_mileage=&style_flag=2&sort_type=priceDESC&address=04660&advanced=&end_year=2011&doors=&transmission=&max_price=6300&cardist=225&standard=false

lead4me

03-28-2010, 12:42 AM

whoops I see that its a V-10 gotta be a gas hog [smilie=b:

geargnasher

03-28-2010, 12:57 AM

WOW, nearly seven grand!. That'll do nicely.

:drinks::drinks::drinks:

Gear

snowtigger

03-28-2010, 02:02 AM

Wow, what a bunch of good people. I bet if we kept this up another month, we could get GW a NEW truck.
There is something wrong with this thread though, the more of it I read, the blurrier it gets...
God Bless you, Mr@ Mrs Gray Wolf..

I would like to take this time thank Gray Wolf for letttng us in on this, With all that is going on in this country today, it feels good to be part of something good.

P.K.

03-28-2010, 08:22 AM

...and it continues to rise!

The total collected as of today, through Paypal, Checks, and Money orders (including the amounts sent directly to Mr. and Mrs. Gray Wolf) is:

are you ready for this?

$6949.54

:shock::shock::shock::shock:

I'll try to do another update on Tuesday!

Don

You can put that tickker at $7009.54 if I can send my auction win via PP. :wink: Otherwise I'll be home on Wed. Then I'll mail direct a MO.8-)

Village Idiot

03-28-2010, 09:18 AM

I have to deal with that darn hay fever everyday when I get near this computer. Heck it's a great feeling though. :bigsmyl2:

Remember the old saying "Shoot For The Stars But Settle For The Moon"? How about a goal of $7000.00 but be satisfied if we get $5000.00?

Larry

...and it continues to rise!

The total collected as of today, through Paypal, Checks, and Money orders (including the amounts sent directly to Mr. and Mrs. Gray Wolf) is:

are you ready for this?

$6949.54

Don

Great job ladies and gentlemen, great job indeed. We shot for the stars and made it in a relative sort period of time. Thank you all for renewing my faith!

Mrs. Grey Wolf needs band aids!!! I am sure we can get you a couple thousand boxes.

GW & Julie
Do we need a honcho for the Band-Aids? :kidding:

gray wolf

03-28-2010, 10:14 AM

I keep saying the same thing over and over--
but I don't know how to say WOW any other way. I wish we all could say grace and have Sunday dinner together.
We are truly blessed to have such great people all in one place. The place is here at Cast Bullets. ( thank you Ken )
I hope all the children get to see this or have it read to them so they can see all the
good-ness people have in there hearts, and that wickedness and evil are only a small part of our world.
The government can try and take some of our things away--BUT-- they can never take this away--NEVER.
I think this has brought many if not all of us closer together. ( I know it has )
We are still trying to work out how to get around to look at trucks. We have seen a few that didn't look to bad, but know one wants to drive a truck up to us and leave it for a mechanic to look at, And we ( so far ) have not been able to go and see any in person.
We are spending a great deal of time on the net looking and making phone calls.
Our emotions go up and they go down, but we are trying to keep them up as much as possible. I keep reading the posts for support and all your kind words.
It is hard to believe what some people want to sell and how much they want for it.
But it's out there I know it is--just hasn't happened yet.
I am trying very hard to take my life off hold, if it was a little warmer I would go smelt some lead or cast a few.
I think about it a lot and try to remember that the 100 pounds of lead I have is not on my shoulders. Julie has shown me some new metal during this whole thing, She has shown me
that if that lead was on my shoulders it would only be 50 pounds because the other fifty is being carried by her.
What a learning experience, and what an awakening. I will try and post more often to keep you all up to speed as to what is taking place.
God bless you all and please have a great Sunday. If you go shooting drop the hammer on a few for us.

Sam & Julie

shdwlkr

03-28-2010, 11:05 AM

Sam and Julie
the government tries and tell that those who have firearms are just a bunch of crazies that don't care about anyone else. This site sure has knocked that idea in the head. Many don't know what it means anymore to help your neighbor and many wouldn't allow us to help as you and Julie have done and thank you so much for letting us help you out.
Americans when I was a kid would do this all the time. I grew up working on a farm and every time that fire siren went off and it was a barn fire we dropped everything and went to the fire and more times then I care to think about I went into burning barns and removed animals and equipment much to the dislike of the firemen but the owner was so happy to have their animals or that new tractor and combine. Only one fire did I have to shoot the animals because the down stairs where they were was on fire. The county sheriff came with the rifles and no one but this dumb kid and the sheriff would get close enough to end the suffering of those animals. Never will forget seeing cows with their hides on fire and still alive and everyone I could see I ended that suffering.
You see back when I was a kid you did give a dam about your neighbor even if they were the most miserable person in the area. why because they were neighbors and you help in time of need no matter what. Now how many of us even know our neighbors or even care too.
I am in a city now and hate it, don't know the neighbors and most likely never will, why because we don't ever see them except as they drive away.
Sure wished we could go back to the days when it matter like we have here.
Have a good sunday and keep looking your truck will show up when it is time. Maybe it is waiting for all the funds to get in so you can get the right one.

montana_charlie

03-28-2010, 03:00 PM

You can put that tickker at $7009.54 if I can send my auction win via PP. :wink: Otherwise I'll be home on Wed. Then I'll mail direct a MO.8-)
P.K.,
Read Post #52...

We are spending a great deal of time on the net looking and making phone calls.
Our emotions go up and they go down, but we are trying to keep them up as much as possible. I keep reading the posts for support and all your kind words.

Sam,
I don't see any need for fluctuating emotions.
You were upset when this thing started, because you were looking at a bleak prospect. Once the 'fund' was started, there had to be some emotional ups and downs as you wondered if the total would ever amount to enough to buy something worthwhile.

But now you are over the hump, Son. You have a guaranteed 'good truck' whenever you happen to find it. Now, it's kinda like needing to rake the leaves in the yard...if you don't get it done today, they will still be there tomorrow. No need to get worked up about it.

The only emotion you should be feeling now is anticipation...and that 'fun feeling' goes away once you make the purchase...so enjoy it while you can.

CM

PatMarlin

03-28-2010, 03:24 PM

longranger

03-28-2010, 05:17 PM

This whole deal just tickles me to no end.I have never been associated with a finer group of men and women. Over 7G's, one big collective pat on the back for all involved.

Village Idiot

03-28-2010, 05:38 PM

gray wolf

03-28-2010, 07:55 PM

Now why didn't I think of that???
I like the thought of placing an add on Craigs list.
I think we will take that advise and do it.

Thanks folks

Sam

shdwlkr

03-28-2010, 08:29 PM

Sam
Did you think we would walk away before you and Julie had a truck?
We are a much closer group than that and if you have questions need ideas post we will answer and make suggestions for you.
We are with you on this all the way my friend

gray wolf

03-28-2010, 08:56 PM

Did you think we would walk away before you and Julie had a truck?

How could we ever think any of you folks would leave now??
If I ever knew anyone was behind us --I know you great people are.
I like hearing from you all--We listen to everything.
The biggest problem we have now is no way to get any place. Got to figure out how to do laundry this week Ugh--I hate hauling laundry.
If we see something we can't get to see it, and no one wants to bring one to us and hang out for a mechanic to inspect it. ( there loss Eh )
But we know it's out there, just got to turn over a few more stones to find it.

hoosierlogger

03-28-2010, 09:07 PM

it's kinda like needing to rake the leaves in the yard...if you don't get it done today, they will still be there tomorrow.

Yeah but some times even if you do get them all raked up, the next morning the yard will be full again.

Recluse

03-29-2010, 02:02 AM

I would run a local Craigs list add:

Private party looking for a one owner, well maintained used 4x4 truck (in the __ area). I have cash. Serious sellers only.

Please repy with contact info and detailed truck discription and price. NO JUNK PLEASE!

Thank you kindly-

Pat, that's a helluva idea!

How about something like this?

Veteran on fixed income looking for gently used, low-mileage 4x4 truck, in the western Maine/eastern New Hampshire area. I can pay by cash, but would like to have a mechanic first check out the truck for me and my wife. Serious sellers only, please.

Please reply with contact information and detailed description and picture of truck.

Thank you.

:coffee:

Wayne Smith

03-29-2010, 07:45 AM

shdwlkr

03-29-2010, 03:10 PM

Sam
I only had to have my truck worked on because I kissed a concrete mall barrier at 70mph and it has taken several weeks. I had to hound them to get back together enough so I could get some stuff done between work they had to do on the truck and they were great and let me take it out to do what I needed and then back in the shop. Now to get my trailer back that has been tied up for a month waiting on an axle.
When I think of you and nothing to get around with I really wish I was closer would make a few trips for you just to give my truck something to do. Ha Ha But from where I am to where you are the wife would get just a little upset with me being gone that much.
Now have to start working on the yard later this week then the garden and then who knows, oh then I can work on the garage and get my reloading stuff up so I can teach some new reloaders what it takes to reload.

gray wolf

03-29-2010, 09:02 PM

Sam, do you have a relationship with a local mechanic? Such that a truck could be taken to him first and cleared by him? That would make it easier for someone to deliver assuming that the mechanic is in some nearby (relatively) town.

We will not get anything without a mechanic looking at it.
It has also been suggested that we might rent a car for a few days to go and look at some trucks. If you all say it is OK to do it we will keep that in mind.
We did up an add for Craigs list.
We talked to another dealer in New Hampshire who has a
2,000 Dodge ram 1500 4x4 Xtr. cab. no rust---small dent in Rt front fender bed liner, tow PKG.
70% rubber. runs good, shift good. 135,000K Vin. #1B7HF13Y1YJ145451.
He also said he could deliver and we could have our Mechanic look it over.
$200.00 for delivery fee, if we take it or not-- it is 3 hours each way.
If the mechanic finds a major problem he takes it back--I say good by and walk away.
I told him only if mechanic passed it, and would sticker it.

Give me some input with this--what all should the mechanic check ??
I have an idea but don't want to miss anything.
Front end, rear end, 4x4, steering, engine, trans, shocks, springs, lights, exhaust,
what else??

Bloodman14

03-29-2010, 09:19 PM

Alignment (ALL OF IT!) that means; bushings, sway bar, links, idler arm, Pittman arm, tie-rod ends, upper/lower ball joints, steering rods, etc. Power steering pump and hoses, too. Check for oil on engine block; may indicate long-term leak. U-joints and seals on rear axle; oil level IN rear axle. Wheel bearings on all 4 corners; brakes and lines, master and wheel cylinders/calipers. Check for rust on the underbody and inside the wheelwells. Do all the buttons/switches work? The more 'power' junk you have, the more things that can break! Check wiring and fuses/relays/fusible links (if any). Sensors, senders and seals. Make sure that you get the 'Haynes' manual for it.

montana_charlie

03-29-2010, 09:23 PM

It has also been suggested that we might rent a car for a few days to go and look at some trucks. If you all say it is OK to do it we will keep that in mind.
Once you have the money in your fist, you can spend it any way you see fit. No need to ask us if it's okay.

Give me some input with this--what all should the mechanic check ??

I copied this from a Google result on your question.
"Your mechanic should do a compression test, battery and charging test, frame inspection, fluid leakage inspection, alignment and suspension check, brake inspection, and test drive for engine and transmission performance."
http://www.safecarguide.com/gui/inp/inspection.htm

They also said it's a good idea to look at the previous owner's maintenance records...if he has kept any.

There are lots of other things you could ask the mechanic to check, but...like Mason said to Dixon, "You gotta draw the line somewhere."

CM

Village Idiot

03-29-2010, 10:01 PM

GW
I have no issues with you two renting a rig for a week or two so you can get out and look for a rig. To me that would be cheap money to insure you find something decent.

As far as the truck, as I said my money is in and feel I have no say in the matter and don’t feel the need to. I just pray you find something decent that takes some burden off you and Julie. As for myself (and I believe for others here) Please don’t feel you have to justify your decision.

I would consider $200 to deliver, wait while your mechanic does the once over, and take it back if you’re not satisfied again is cheap money for the peace of mind it will give you.
Some of the techs here can probably give you some specifics on a given model to watch for. As far as general; being in the rust belt I would add to your list brake lines and a good check of the under carriage for rust. Does it appear the truck was coated when new? Possibly oiled yearly or bi yearly. Basically what shape is it in now. Other things would be belts, hoses, plug wires, stuff like that. First that will let you know what you should get done right off after purchase and second if the tech can say belts pretty good looks like it was changed a couple of years ago it will show that whoever had the truck prior probably maintained it. Check the fluids more than likely they have replaced by the dealer but you never know. Also a good tech will be able to tell if major work had been done recently like heads pulled tranny pulled etc. If he can look for that and finds something questionable you can question the dealer about it. One thing on the bed liner, if it is a plastic liner I have heard of rust problems with some of them. They can trap moisture and salt from winter between it and the bed and can rust the bed from inside out, usually the bottom of the bed or in the corners. I’m sure you can’t pull the liner to check it but the tech can check the corners of the bed from the underside for holes or soft spots.

Good luck to you and the missus!

V.I.

Muddy Creek Sam

03-30-2010, 09:17 AM

GW,

You and Julie should do what you need to to get what you need, If it is renting a vehicle, Go for It.

Sam :D

Wayne Smith

03-30-2010, 12:05 PM

May be obvious, but get the CarFax or whatever it is that shows it's accident/repair record. Too many flooded cars/trucks out there to trust without the facts.

Sam and Julie, go about it however you need to. You are the only ones that know your situation completely. We trust your judgment.

gray wolf

03-30-2010, 12:26 PM

May be obvious, but get the CarFax or whatever it is that shows it's accident/repair record

Cost $35.00 but it sounds like a good thing to do.

woody1

03-30-2010, 12:51 PM

Remember folks, we're not buying new or even recent. AFAIC it's the major stuff to look out for as well as to try to find out how it's been maintained. My wife and I have 3 vehicles, all 4x4's, two are pickups. The newest one is 12 yr. old. The oldest (the one I generally drive) is 19 and mileage is approaching 250K. Good maintenance and spending a buck now and then will get you there. Once a vehicle gets some age on it, I just figure I'll have to spend $700-1000 a year getting stuff fixed instead of making car payments to the tune of $5-6K plus per year. I'm not a mechanic although I can do stuff like changing plugs, wires, alternators, belts, etc. The rest, I take to R&J Auto for fixin'. Face it, older rigs need care and just figure on it.

geargnasher

03-30-2010, 03:21 PM

We will not get anything without a mechanic looking at it.
It has also been suggested that we might rent a car for a few days to go and look at some trucks. If you all say it is OK to do it we will keep that in mind.
We did up an add for Craigs list.
We talked to another dealer in New Hampshire who has a
2,000 Dodge ram 1500 4x4 Xtr. cab. no rust---small dent in Rt front fender bed liner, tow PKG.
70% rubber. runs good, shift good. 135,000K Vin. #1B7HF13Y1YJ145451.
He also said he could deliver and we could have our Mechanic look it over.
$200.00 for delivery fee, if we take it or not-- it is 3 hours each way.
If the mechanic finds a major problem he takes it back--I say good by and walk away.
I told him only if mechanic passed it, and would sticker it.

Give me some input with this--what all should the mechanic check ??
I have an idea but don't want to miss anything.
Front end, rear end, 4x4, steering, engine, trans, shocks, springs, lights, exhaust,
what else??

Top pattern failures for this truck:

* Front unit wheel bearings.
*3.9L/5.2L/5.9L gas engines have intake manifold gasket and lower intake plenum plate (bed plate) gasket issues causing blue smoke, carbon in exhaust, and high oil consumption.
*Water pumps and serpentine belt tensioners fail with annoying frequency.
*Thermostat housing gasket leaking, pinholes rusted through housing.
*Vacuum system on front axle disconnect (for 4X4).
*Overdrive unit on 47RE automatic transmission, CHECK FOR BURNED FLUID.
*Tune-ups need to be done every 30k miles, in our modern world of "super-double-iridium-whizbang-runforever" spark plugs and distributorless ignition systems this is often overlooked on the old Dodges!
*All the extra checks you need for a High Salt enviroment, your mechanic will know.

These are good trucks, but, like all, need to be maintained. Frequent cooling system and transmission flushes are critical, as are oil changes. Change engine oil and filter every THREE THOUSAND MILES, NO MORE! The "Magnum" series of iron engines are set to run much hotter than is good for them which causes oil sludge/varnish formation worse than any other series of engines I've encountered with the possible exception of the 2.7/3.7/4.7/5.7 Hemi series. Chrysler had to make them run hot to pass the stricter EPA Corporate Average Fuel Economy standards at the time, but frequent oil changes keeps this from becoming a problem.

Gear

gray wolf

03-30-2010, 04:22 PM

What about the ford 1998 ford expedition 4.6L. 4x4 automatic trans.

lead4me

03-30-2010, 05:17 PM

Great Truck and Blue Book for one is right in your price range, 4.6 is a great motor gas mileage is not the greatest but if your not driving a lot of long distances than is doesn't matter.
Make sure that the cruise control recall has been fixed (their were reported fires) and have the front end checked out (grease-less joints there about time to go bad) I have a 1998 F-150 just changed mine out (150,000 miles)
Good luck on the hunt for your truck, be picky and try and get the most for your money you'll be hauling precious cargo in it.

PatMarlin

03-30-2010, 06:08 PM

RayinNH

03-30-2010, 06:58 PM

G.W., whatever you get, make sure it has a new little pine tree hanging from the mirror :mrgreen:...Ray

longranger

03-30-2010, 08:15 PM

Buy a Ford ,good service centers, non government owned parts when/if you need them.4.6 is a good engine as long you don't need to tow heavy trailers.

geargnasher

03-31-2010, 12:30 AM

Get a 94-97 vintage GM pickup 4x4 with 350 EFI. Very dependable, comfortable, excellent fuel economy, easy to work on, parts don't cost fingers, arms and legs.

Them Dodges will put ya in the poor house ...:mrgreen:

Plus one, Pat, STILL the best overall light truck on the road, but I was trying to keep my personal bias out of it!

Only thing I can't say for sure is how well they hold up to salt.

Gear

PatMarlin

03-31-2010, 12:46 AM

My best bang for the Dollar has been GM and Toyota, but the last truck I bought my wife was an 02 Toy, and they have gone down hill in ruggedness. Had other problems too. We sold it and rebuilt her old 91 Toy (4x4 of course) and she's happy as a clam. Probably 300,000 miles on that truck.

Recluse

03-31-2010, 02:08 AM

I'll throw in for the mid-90's GM/Chevy full-size trucks.

That 350, er excuse me, that 5.7 litre engine is bullet proof and there are a gazillion parts out there for it--all extremely inexpensive compared to the newer stuff.

I'm still driving my '94 full-size Chevy and I've rolled 210K on it. Six months ago, I had the transmission rebuilt. Everything else on the truck is perfect. The interior still looks new, the frame is flawless, zero rust--and it goes to the beach quite a bit, plus it pulls the boat and spends a lot of time at the lake during the spring/summer/fall. It stays outside, is a daily driver and still has no rust, no corrosion and no fading paint.

Over the course of those 210K miles, I've replaced the shocks twice, brakes twice, alternator four times, thermostat three times, serpentine belt twice, plugs and wires, cap and rotor twice and did trade in a slightly leaking radiator for a newly refurbished one.

The maintenance cost on that time period truck is far less than my BIL's Dodge Ram of the same vintage--because parts are more plentiful and therefore a lot less expensive for the GM.

Working on the truck, from either my own perspective as a DIYer or from a mechanic's perspective is child's play. LOTS of room under the hood to crawl around in and everything on that engine is easily accessible. Likewise for everything underneath.

I pull a horse trailer with this truck and I pull a boat and an occasional equipment trailer. Doesn't even cause the truck to break out in a sweat, let alone work it.

:coffee:

PatMarlin

03-31-2010, 09:31 AM

Over the course of those 210K miles, I've replaced the shocks twice, brakes twice, alternator four times, thermostat three times, serpentine belt twice, plugs and wires, cap and rotor twice and did trade in a slightly leaking radiator for a newly refurbished one.

:coffee:

AND- if you really want to sharpen your pensil... I buy all of my parts from AutoZone or Kragen etc., with a lifetime warranty and keep all of my receipts.

I haven't had to buy starters, alternators, breakpads, powersteering lines, brake cyclinders- you name it for 2 Chevy's and one GMC since going back to the 80's when they started doing that.

Just rebuilt the trans and transfer case on my 95 Chevy Extracab 4x4 with 217k miles and including towing miles. My 85 GMC 4x4 with a turbo 400 trans has 300k on it, and no remote sine of giving up with no rebuilds.

scrapcan

03-31-2010, 10:03 AM

Pat,

I would have to agree ont eh chevy/gmc series trucks you mention. We had an 88 gmc 2500 ong bed supercab and that truck is one that just kept going. 343K on it when we traded it off. It needed rebuilt and was not enough truck to pull the 24 foot horse trialer with 3 or 4 horses in it.

I have also had great luck with same vintage ford trucks. We have a 97 and a 2000 3.4 ton 4x4 fords (both diesels) and I would buy another.

I grew up around chrusler/dodge products and I would not buy one at this point. I have seen far too many issues with the pickups. and in this area parts and dealers service are the worst of the lot.

A good friend bought a brand new 3/4ton 4x4 with factory tow package set up for 5th wheel and bumber hitch. He went through 2 manual trans and a rearend in less than a year. all the weights and specs were well below the capacity of the vehicle. Dodge voided his warranty and showed him where using the vehicle to tow a trailer voided his warranty. He is still in a lawsuit with them and now has about $10,000 extra in a 2 year old truck that should be under warranty.

gray wolf

03-31-2010, 01:06 PM

Well men this is the next try for a truck. This is a 1998 Ford expedition.
Green in color, 5.4L V8--4x4, 140,00K, It's a pick up with the SUV body.
Should be plenty of room for the dogs and us. I have included some pics. the truck looks very clean, PW-AC-PS-PDL-PB-CC-tilt wheel, air and heat front and back.
This is NOT the Eddie Bauer edition.
Mechanic said he went over everything and it looks like a new 4 wheel drive unit.
Front end is tight, shift good runs good and so on.
BUT, my mechanic will look it over first. Posed to show up tomorrow
at around 1PM.
What you think??

Sam

Recluse

03-31-2010, 01:36 PM

Looks good to me.

Those Expeditions are nothing more than an F150 with a couple of extra doors and a permanent topper on the back. That's why Suburbans never scared me and probably why my wife still wants one.

Nice color, too. It'll compliment your Cast Boolits bumper sticker real well. :)

Let us know what your mechanic thinks.

:coffee:

mroliver77

03-31-2010, 01:43 PM

Looks like a good one from here. I like my Fords. My 90's F150 has 250K= and has had very little go wrong with it. Never washed and does have some rust but basically a solid truck yet. Keep us updated.
Jay

montana_charlie

03-31-2010, 02:31 PM

What you think??
It will probably do what you need...especially if your mechanic can put a Chevy emblem on the front.
CM

257 Shooter

03-31-2010, 04:36 PM

Looks good to me. If you have money left over get some mud tries for the winter.

Down South

03-31-2010, 04:50 PM

Looks good to me if that is what will serve your needs.

hoosierlogger

03-31-2010, 05:03 PM

Looks like a good unit to me.

milsurp mike

03-31-2010, 05:05 PM

It looks good.I dont know alot about Ford Gas burners but if its anything like my 99 Ford diesel its a good one.Knock on wood I have never had a problem with it.Good luck in your search.I always try to talk to the last owner of the Vehicle also.Be careful out there.Mike

Village Idiot

03-31-2010, 05:22 PM

I like it Sam. I was going to recommend and SUV for ya back a while ago. Had always been a truck guy until last time around, I bought the SUV. I love it. I lay the back seats down and the mutts love it too. Plenty of room for the hunting, fishing, and shooting stuff in the back. Hauls the boat great. I did pick up a small trailer from a guy that was going to scrap it. It had a metal body on it and was rusted pretty well. Stripped down to the frame welded that up built a wooden body new bearings and tires, it works great for stuff I don’t want in the rig. I do recommend you get a matt for the back to protect the carpet when hauling stuff and when the mutts are back there. Good luck to you and the missus.
V.I.

gray wolf

03-31-2010, 05:39 PM

Interior of the truck.
There is a stain on the driver's side floor but I think we can get that out. The floor mats are out for pics only.
It looks pretty clean inside.

We plan on seat covers and a cover for the rugs in back when the seats are down. And yes, it will be just dandy for going to the range for target practice and other things. Even hunting cause it is higher than most SUV's so that shouldn't be an issue on back roads.

Glad to hear you guys like it. It's like a F150 with a station wagon body on it, sorta.

theperfessor

03-31-2010, 06:17 PM

It looks good! If it gets a clean bill of health I'd go for it, but of course that's your decision.

Village Idiot

03-31-2010, 06:55 PM

Your going to like that independent opening rear window also. Its great for dropping small things in the back quick without the need to open the hatch.

V.I.

Geraldo

03-31-2010, 07:22 PM

GW, definately have your mechanic check the transmission. Two friends plus one department owned Expedition in that vintage had trannies go toes up--a very expensive fix. Otherwise they were great trucks.

kbstenberg

03-31-2010, 07:42 PM

Im glad things are looking up for you two!
Kevin

Thumbcocker

03-31-2010, 07:45 PM

Shotgun!

DLCTEX

03-31-2010, 07:51 PM

Looks good. I've had good luck with both Ford and Chevy (225K+ miles on a number of each). Hope it runs forever.

AZ-Stew

03-31-2010, 08:08 PM

Greywolf,

See if you can find anyone who will tell you why the "4-wd" unit would be new (I assume, replaced). I also assume you mean the transfer case. It seems odd that a transfer case would give out. Most people don't use 4-wd often enough to cause it much wear. And if it's true the transfer case was replaced, what other collateral damage might have been caused by the failure. Just a suggestion. I don't want to see you end up with continuous repair headaches.

Regards,

Stew

gray wolf

03-31-2010, 08:40 PM

WOW--it looks like I got a lot to do. I think it is very important that I communicate with my mechanic tomorrow so he understands all the things to look for. Should I ask him to hook it up to a computer to do more checks ? I don't want to get to freaky with this but it has to be as right as I can make it.
I have to pay tax and Reg. fees and plate transfer fee. Winter tires, seat covers, tune up?
oil change. Can they just change the tranny fluid ? or is that a 3 or 4 huned dolor job.
If the inspection takes an hour that's another 60 bucks.
I should be OK with it all and Julie deserves a dinner out.
I am making a list.
I hope and pray this works out, it has been a huge teem effort.
SIDES I got to get my darn laundry done, and cast some bullets.
Sitting by the casting pot and looking down at the mold, knocking the sprue plate open and dropping the bullets gives me such a great feeling. It kinda puts me in my own little space,
and it is very relaxing for me. Even if I have to remelt some. Sides this is a good excuse to get some Nu-finish car wax, and if there is any left over I can use it to shine some brass.
So many of you have been such a great help with all of this, along with a great support group.
I must again say thank you to Don for all he has done and all his kind words.
I want things to go well tomorrow but in a way I hate to see this thread end.
If for nothing else but for the close-ness and the family feeling it has brought to us all.

Sam

Rock

03-31-2010, 08:59 PM

244 thousand miles on my expedition. They are pretty easy to get used to :)

obssd1958

03-31-2010, 10:13 PM

Folks,
This has been a case of "never underestimate the power of your fellow man to FLOOR YOU with his (and her!) generosity". Many times over the past couple of weeks, I have sat here stunned, and misty-eyed, due to the sacrifices that you all have made to benefit a couple that you don't personally know. I have spoken to Sam and Julie on the phone, and I know that they can never put into words, what this means to them. As to my part in this, thank you for the kind words, but I feel blessed and thankful that you allowed me do what I could.
What a tremendously wonderful group of people...

I'm going to make this the final monetary update, figuring most everything is in now, the total is:

$7284.54 (un-freakin'-believable!)

and what we are all really waiting for is

THE TRUCK!!

Muddy Creek Sam

03-31-2010, 10:24 PM

Don,

Got to agree with you. That is great.

Sam :D

shdwlkr

03-31-2010, 10:46 PM

Seems to be a good vehicle if it passes the mechanic test and he can answer all your questions.
As to the transfer case issue if the previous owner didn't know how to use the 4wd they wear out pretty fast and it could have been someone who didn't realize that if you hit something going over it things break or who knows but something to ask the mechanic about.
I am on my second ford super duty and can say they take a beating.

lylejb

03-31-2010, 11:06 PM

A couple of thoughts on the 5.4L expedition

First, expect 12 - 14 mpg. Worse if some of that lead finds it's way to your foot.:-o

Second, please read posts 230 and 237. While not all 5.4L will blow a spark plug this is an "early" motor that could.

Offically, Ford says this is not repairable, and requires a replacement cylinder head. Do not use thread repair inserts. When these vehicles were under warrenty, we did it that way.

However, the funny thing about that was that Ford's own remanufactured cylinder heads came WITH the very thread repairs they told us not to do!!! Right out of the box!!

The fact is, (and I'm not saying it will happen, just that it could) this can be repaired. Aftermarket companies make tool kits specifically for repairing this.

Third, some early 5.4L's had an oil seepage from the back the head gaskets. This wasn't like the typical "leaky head gasket" most people might think of as a major problem. It didn't hurt the running or longevity of the engine, it might leave a couple of oil drips in your driveway.

If you do get this truck, as far as a "tune up" I would say do it ONCE, WITH THE FACTORY MOTORCRAFT PLUGS, THEN FORGET IT. these are 100,000 mile spark plugs. You don't need it every 30,000 like the Dodge. I've also seen aftermarket spark plugs cause odd running problems with these engines, especially Bosch.

woody1

04-01-2010, 10:33 AM

Folks,

What a tremendously wonderful group of people...

I'm going to make this the final monetary update, figuring most everything is in now, the total is:

$7284.54 (un-freakin'-believable!)

and what we are all really waiting for is

THE TRUCK!!

Shoot, now MY computer screen is getting blurry and I think I'm gettin' hay fever even though it's snowing outside! Way to go. Regards, Woody

PatMarlin

04-01-2010, 11:37 AM

Nice color!

AZ-Stew

04-01-2010, 01:23 PM

And we did it all without government assistance.

Regards,

Stew

montana_charlie

04-01-2010, 02:10 PM

And we did it all without government assistance.
And, it didn't involve ACORN...although it did take a pile of nuts to pull it off.
CM

geargnasher

04-01-2010, 02:15 PM

One note on the spark plugs, USE ANTI-SEIZE COMPOUND, TORQUE THEM WITH A KNOWN GOOD TORQUE WRENCH, REPLACE THE BOOTS, USE DIELECTRIC COMPOUND ON BOTH ENDS OF THE BOOTS.

That will save a lot of trouble.

Gear

EDIT: Just got the "4wd" thing, that's vague as heck, but I'm betting the feedback circuits in the electric shift servo are on the fritz, so the ETCSM doesn't know what postition the shifter is actually in. Default is, IIRC, 2WD. The part is a couple hundred bucks and takes five minutes to change. Just have the mechanic make sure it's not a bad 4WD control switch on the dash or a damaged wiring harness underneath.

One more thing about the Expedition, they squeak, pop, and rattle worse than a covered wagon. The interior plastic panels fall apart. Mechanically, pretty decent trucks though, I would go for it if the major stuff checks out ok.

Gear

gray wolf

04-01-2010, 06:11 PM

---------------------------------It's Done------

Mechanic said it should have breaks fairly soon and a muffler/tail pipe,
one broken manifold bolt said I could live with it OR fix it, shift cable is stiff.
Idler arm a LITTLE loose--fix when I can. Get better tires for the winter.
Said overall for the year it was in good shape.

Engine OK--tranny OK--4x4 OK,ball joints and front end OK, rear end Ok.
Fluids look good.

It seems to be running ok, I will have the items checked again, I know it needs the muffler. I have enough to fix the items and look for some tires, and do the legal things. But for now it is in the driveway.
It has been a long haul for all of us, and I say again--the mechanic said it was in good shape for a 1998. the body has no rust and the underside looks good for it's age. He was under the car for a good half hour.
More latter with the official thank you still to come.
Men I did the best I could. The wife seems happy also.

For now

Sam

Thumbcocker

04-01-2010, 06:29 PM

Take Miss Julie out to dinner in that thing. It is obvious that the greatest wealth the two of you have is your relationship with each other. Many happy motoring miles!

Village Idiot

04-01-2010, 06:52 PM

Congrats to you and the missus GW. Glad to see your life will be stabilizing in just a bit. Glad the rig worked out and things look good. Kind of interesting this rig showed up during Passover week and is in your driveway for Easter. Think all those inclined, give special thanks this Sunday and pray he looks over GW, Julie, and their new purchase.

V.I.

gray wolf

04-01-2010, 07:09 PM

VI,

I have given thanks to our Lord for the help of our friends to get this beautiful new truck.

I LOVE IT !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

And it's my favorite color too!

Sam is out in the driver's seat figuring out all the controls and stuff. It has a lot of accessories to get used to being a bigger and different type of truck.

He walked out the door and told me he would be out in his new truck if I wanted him, lol...:-D

Just to prove it's here, we took a pic of it in the driveway. No Cast boolit sticker on it yet. We just got it home, got dinner and are exploring things. We may even take it for a ride after dark down the road to make sure the lights are good on it.
:wink:

You all have made me a VERY happy woman tonight and I am typing with a smile and tears in my eyes.

Our new truck is BEE U TEE FUL.....

THANK YOU......!

My prayers have gone up for all of you to have a Blessed Easter and bounty heaped upon your shoulders of the very best kind.
I am sure Sam has more to say but I had to put in my words of thanks.
You are all in my heart.

Julie

dragonrider

04-01-2010, 07:20 PM

Don't cha love it when a plan comes together. :drinks: Julie and Sam, I hope the truck is everything you need it to be.

Village Idiot

04-01-2010, 07:28 PM

That’s great news Julie, glad you love it and glad Sam is having some fun with your new rig. Thank you much for the prayers. You 2 have fun on your little drive tonight (if you can get him to stop playing with the buttons long enough)[smilie=l:. I am honored to help and to be part of such a wonderful group of people. As I said before, it was a low point for you but this has renewed my faith and brought this community closer together. For that I thank you and GW for allowing us to help.

By the way she sure looks purdy sitting there in the driveway![smilie=w:

Alright all, family crisis is over. Its bickering time again.:bigsmyl2:

V.I.

milsurp mike

04-01-2010, 07:53 PM

Thank the lord we got us a truck.I am so happy for you Guy's.It still blows my mind that something like this still can happen today at a Time when I thought all hope was lost for our Country.I have told this story to alot of people who cant believe it.I guess it goes to show what caliber of Folks we are surrounded with here at Cast Boolits.Thanks to all that helped out these Fine Folks and God Bless.Mike

DLCTEX

04-01-2010, 08:07 PM

Julie and Sam, so happy for you. May the Lord bless you and the truck.

Muddy Creek Sam

04-01-2010, 09:03 PM

Great News. Enjoy it with all of our Blessings.

Sam :D

lead4me

04-01-2010, 09:56 PM

I am so HAPPY for you two, you know the good book says "what so ever a man soweth that shall he also reap" seems to me that you two have done right to others in your life and things have come full circle just when you need it to. I'm thankful that my family was able to play a small part in this. God Bless & have a happy Easter.

shooterg

04-01-2010, 10:14 PM

Anybody else think it's not a coincidence this came together right about Easter ? Bunch of good folks here doing God's work whether they appear often in a church or not.

lylejb

04-01-2010, 11:13 PM

Congrats on the new truck. Enjoy it, I know you will :bigsmyl2:

I'm happy for you and happy to have been a small part of helping out.

Happy Easter.

shdwlkr

04-01-2010, 11:21 PM

Julie and Sam congrats on the new vehicle and may it last until you are sick of it.
Happy Easter and enjoy the heck out of that new rig.
I am so glad that I could do my very small part in all of this it was so nice to be needed and to help out a friend

RobS

04-02-2010, 12:01 AM

Glad to see you both have arrived at place where you can smile again. I as well as everyone else who was involved in showing mankinds better side are smiling along with you. Good luck with your new set of wheels and make sure your hound dogs enjoy their first ride too.

jcwit

04-02-2010, 08:07 AM

So happy for the four of you. Good things happen to good folks. Just gotta let time sort things out sometimes.

largom

04-02-2010, 08:30 AM

My screen never got blurry throughout this whole episode until now!

Love happy endings, Larry

oldhickory

04-02-2010, 09:27 AM

YIPPIE!..You're mobile again!

Do the dogs like it?

PatMarlin

04-02-2010, 11:18 AM

Congradulations you guys and have fun. Who's gonna wash it first? ....:drinks:

God is in control!

Wayne Smith

04-02-2010, 01:33 PM

Congratulations, I am happy for you and just in time for Easter! Two small accounting questions - did you have enough? Is there enough left over for a good dinner out on us?

captaint

04-02-2010, 02:07 PM

Sam & Julie, congradulations. Cast Boolit members, congradulations. I haven't posted on this thread since early on, but I've been reading the whole while. I just knew this would work out. You get good people involved and good things happen. I'm proud to be a member of this forum. enjoy, Mike

mroliver77

04-02-2010, 02:50 PM

Dang it all!! Big tough guy that I am I got misty eyed AGAIN! Dont get me wrong, I am not a SOFTY! I can kill and gut something with one hand while eating a burger with the other. This has really touched me and I am so happy for you'uns and like the truck. PM me your contact details as I would like to also send a care package.
Jay

257 Shooter

04-02-2010, 04:02 PM

Sam and Julie, Thank you for letting us show the true meaning of loving yur brother as yourself. Happy Easter. Enjoy your new ride.

longranger

04-02-2010, 04:07 PM

No coincidence that this came together at Easter, Our Heavenly Father had this in the cards the whole time.

gray wolf

04-02-2010, 07:25 PM

Well it is a blessing for us all for sure, And I do give thanks to the Lord for all you fine folks, and also for our new old truck.
Without you all this would not be possible
PLEASE--all of you understand that--And understand what you all have done.
This is a never to be forgotten thing--and a lesson for the world.
When I get in the truck I think of it as a huge,huge vehicle and your all in there with us.
What a family.
We will do all the fixing up we can do with what we have, and if dinner turns out to be
Mc Donal's then thats fine to. I can't see this plan failing--how could it.
I think we will both wash the truck and smile at it as we do it.

So grateful

Sam

Bullshop

04-02-2010, 07:31 PM

Happy Easter! Enjoy!
Blessings!
BIC/BS

Recluse

04-02-2010, 08:00 PM

Sam and Julie,

Many here feel as though it is WE who were blessed to be able to reach in our pockets and pull out a few dollars and zap them into the paypal account and/or drop some change in an envelope and mail it you.

Several years ago, the pastor at our church asked everyone in the congregation to pick up a large, brown shopping bag on our way out. We're a fairly large church, with a membership--at the time--of around 2300 members.

He announced we were having a food drive as the local pantry was getting very bare.

Now, our church is a little off the beaten path in terms of location. We're in an unincorporated area and the towns around us are all quite small--but small towns have needs that are just as important as those found in big towns.

The pastor asked us rather than buying as much as we could, to instead just buy only enough food to fill the one paper sack up--and then stop. Naturally some folks didn't listen, but most did.

One week later, as we brought in our bulging paper sacks of food, everyone's eyes grew wider and wider in the wonderment of what we saw.

There was a literal mountain of brown grocery sacks bulging with food.

Two weeks later, the pastor announced that it had taken one of our members, who is an OTR owner/operator, it had taken almost his ENTIRE TRAILER--and again, we're talking about a full-size OTR Peterbilt 18-wheeler here--his entire trailer to load all the food in.

What's more, the local pantry (food bank) was so overwhelmed that they had to call another local town to take the rest of the food. There was so much food that we then held a drive to BUILD two brand new food banks for those little towns.

And just like before, everyone simply reached in and gave a few extra dollars.

The lesson of all of this, the pastor explained, was in the power of Family.

Perhaps a few folks here could've written you and Julie a check to cover a new(er) truck for you, just as we have a few congregation members at the church who could've easily bought all that food and then donated it.

But instead, the power of the Family spread the sacrifice around to where everyone could afford to get involved. Likewise, it also spread the Blessing around that we all felt because we had all banded together to make the food drive the success it was.

I, personally, feel that way here. The power of our Family allowed us to all band together so that no one member here was overly burdened, and instead an ample amount of funds were raised to help you and the missus out.

And likewise, the pictures and joy and appreciation you and Julie communicated made it possible for all of us to share in the Blessing.

It could not have happened on a more appropriate weekend--Easter weekend.

Thank you Sam and Julie. And God Bless you.

:coffee:

462

04-02-2010, 08:09 PM

Sam and Julie,
Happy Easter and congratulations! I am extremely happy that you were able to get exactly what fits your wants and needs.

Castboolits is, without a doubt, a shining example of how like-minded people can tend to and care for their own. Isn't it amazing what can be accomplished when government is not involved?

Sarah Palin has a Fox News program in which she profiles "American heroes". It would surely be something if word were to get to her about Castboolits' owner and the moderaters who worked so diligently and selfishly to make this all possible. I suspect, though, that they, along with all of us who contributed to the cause, would shun the spotlight. We do not think of us as being heroes. We just did a good deed. I think we will all sleep peacefully, tonight.

gray wolf

04-02-2010, 08:30 PM

You folks come up with some beautiful words.
Yes the power of -- Many---

44fanatic

04-02-2010, 09:15 PM

Julie and Sam,
I am very happy that things have worked out (sniffle sniffle). The giving of the members here has left me with a warm heart and I am very proud of my new CastBoolit family. Thinking about braggin about yall on another forum...the forum that led me your way.

Bill

shdwlkr

04-02-2010, 09:24 PM

Sam and Julie
It was just and act of friendship or family if you wish stepping up and helping another member of the family out. I have done some things for my daughter and her husband now that he lets me and all I have ever asked from them is that they use what ever I get them and that is good enough for me.
I don't like being in the lime light never have it is so much more fun to watch someone else get the spot light and stay behind the curtain and watch. I did what I could as did many others here and we were able to get the both of you something you needed and in doing so to be granted a blessing from the only one who matters to me my savior. Worldly things are nice and needed sometimes, but being able to get a blessing and on Easter weekend to boot is worth very much to me.
I really am glad that you and Julie got what you needed and hope it lasts you a long time and that it is a joy to have and travel in.
Once again thank you both so much for letting us be part of your lives and to help out in your time of need.
Castboolits has shown me that I couldn't be a part of a better group. I am so glad that I found this group and to be an active part of it and also to enjoy getting to know so many here.

Typecaster

04-02-2010, 10:03 PM

WOW! After the last couple of weeks I needed some good news (secular), and this is it! I am proud to have been a small part of this. My sons (both professionally in the e-world) are amazed that the concept of a virtual community—especially one as microcosmic as cast booleteers—can translate into a real-life community, as well.

Good job, and blessings to ALL involved. Sam and Julie, don't think we're done with you yet.

Richard

Richard

Bad Water Bill

04-02-2010, 10:35 PM

What I think would make a wonderful Easter card would be a picture of Julie pulling into the driveway with the groceries for a well deserved Easter dinner.

No make that the leftovers from the Easter dinner that GW treated you to.[smilie=w:

Mumblypeg

04-03-2010, 01:28 AM

This has been great but I have to admit that I have just one regret... I wish that I could have given what I had to pay the IRS. I would have known that it went to a worthwhile cause.:smile:

Buckshot

04-03-2010, 01:43 AM

.............I sure pleased it all turned out well. That's the main thing after all. And I agree there a pretty good bunch here. Make a heckuva group hug, wouldn't it ?:D

.............Buckshot

Bret4207

04-03-2010, 10:07 AM

You know, recently there have been some here that spoke of "the fairly tales" in the Bible and things like that, just a general dissing of the Christian faiths. That really steams me for a couple reasons. Number 1, whether you believe in a higher power or not, the basic instructions in the Bible and Torah (I think that's the right word), the Book of Mormon and even many parts of the Koran all give some pretty good rules on getting along with your neighbors and family. As I understand it the Hindu, Buddhist, Shinto and many other faiths also share many of the same basic rules and ideals- you want to get along with your people and be a decent person then don't be a butt head, or words to that effect. That's just good old common sense IMO.

Number 2, when I read that first post Sam made I figured we could help out a little, a few hundred bucks maybe till they could get a beater to make it to town. Boy, was I wrong. Look what we did! Now anyone that wants can say there is no higher power, maybe they're right and the things I see that make me think things happen for a reason or through some sort of plan is just pure coincidence, a happy confluence of random events. Or maybe they're full of it and their egos just won't allow for the possibility there's something a whole lot bigger and more powerful than us puny little monkeys down here on ol' planet Earth. Either way, there most certainly is a bond of friendship and compassion among the brotherhood here. To me that's sort of proof that there is a bond throughout humanity. "The Force" as one of my kids called it. All I know is sometimes I get a real strong feeling that there's something there for us all, and this was one of those times. In todays world, with so much happening that seems to point to our countries end, maybe even the End Times themselves, this is a breath of fresh air and some real, non-political hope.

I am humbled to belong to such a fine group of people. Thank you all.

NVcurmudgeon

04-03-2010, 10:49 AM

woody1

04-03-2010, 08:48 PM

Bret. Not much of a church goer here but I sure like to think there's a Great Spirit or whatever you want to call him/her/it out there sorta looking on and stirring things around. Something stirred up the folks here and got this going. Regards, Woody

shdwlkr

04-03-2010, 09:41 PM

brett
You are totally correct that there is a higher power than man that can and sometimes does start things to see how they will turn out. In this case he did a very good job of showing that even though some of us will never meet face to face we are a sort of family and we all did what we could to help out another member of our family and I think we did just fine.
In today's world some would have us think that there is no compassion for our fellow man or woman but we proved that idea wrong and also that we do care about others than ourselves and that is a very good thing.
I believe there is a higher being that sees and watches us from the time we are born until we did and keeps track of everything that we do and don't do and all the missed opportunities and also at times he speaks to us and if we listen and follow the promptings we are blessed and if we miss them then we get a negative check in our book of life.
One last thing and that is I am so glad my parents are dead and can't see the way America is being torn apart and will one day be nothing that they knew or I did for most of my life. I know some say we can change it but who is going to make the changes? The Republican party that doesn't even know what they stand for anymore. The democrats who have no backbone to stand up to Reid and Polosi and tell them were to go? The tea party that isn't really a party yet? the Conservatives who can't get it right what they want?
The only ones I see doing anything are the Progressives and Socialist and Marxists and Communists and I for one don't like there idea of change for America, but what do I know I am just an old man that has seen better days.
time for my cookies and milk and a good western

gray wolf

04-04-2010, 08:39 AM

Happy Easter to all our extended family here on Cast Boolits!

We are going to try to get some more pics today of us and the new Ford which I have nicknamed the "Conastoga" as it is more of a wagon type than a truck type, lol....

So far we love it. Still getting used to driving a different vehicle. After driving our Dodge for upwards of 12 years, it will take awhile. We took a ride yesterday to town to pick up the stuff that I forgot on Friday when I did laundry and grocery shopped. The pups went with me and they have given their seal of approval of it.
The Malamute likes the rear seat and the young pup (when the older one lets her) likes it too. I caught a glimpse of them both sitting back there with the wind in their faces. Too cute.
After us being cramped into the reg cab Dodge it is like having a big Conastoga wagon instead now. There was room for two dogs and the pile of laundry we had collected in the month the Dodge was broken down.

We will give our collective thanks to our Father who I am postive helped to make this happen. And then, maybe a ride to see if the range is ok.
Heard yesterday that the road may still be messed up with frost heaves but we shall see. If it is, maybe just a nice ride somewhere.

Did I say that I love our new truck???????????

skimmerhead

04-04-2010, 02:34 PM

dear grey wolf i know where your coming from cause i'v been there. we were brought to work for what we wanted and to always give a days work for a days pay. i belive that i have been blessed in many ways. i was succesful in anythlng i chose to do thus became a work aholic. then became sick at age 55 ,no longer able to work, no longer able to provide for my family, i could not understand why me. then during my long months of recovery i realized that things could be a lot worse. though my sholders be broad the lord will not place more than i can carry on them! and since then my attitude towards life has changed. i am no longer depressed and make the most of what i have because i know the lord is with me. i hope things get better for you and maybe these words will bring you comfort.

skimmerhead

gray wolf

04-04-2010, 05:08 PM

and make the most of what i have because i know the lord is with me. i hope things get better for you and maybe these words will bring you comfort.

skimmerhead
***************

Yes they bring us comfort, and we thank you for your testimony.
As we thank everyone for there kind words and understanding during this hard time for us.
I have never looked at a forum the way I look at this one now. It has changed me.
I still have some of the old paint to scrape off but I know I feel a change inside of me.
The Lord is with my wife and I every day. I believe we are all blessed in our own way,
sometimes we get so busy being men and fixing everything that we might forget there are times someone else is guiding our feet. I hope I said that right.

Recluse

04-04-2010, 06:02 PM

Sam, you said it perfectly.

Happy Easter to you and your beautiful wife.

:coffee:

kbstenberg

04-04-2010, 07:36 PM

Sam for me personally a simple thank you is enough. An then for you to get on with life.
Kevin

snowtigger

04-05-2010, 03:51 AM

Sam and Julie, I would like to thank YOU for letting us be a part of this. Now go and enjoy that "new" truck , and say no more about it. It is WE who were blessed. Roger

DanWalker

04-05-2010, 05:26 AM

Thanks for letting us help you.
That being said, things like this always make me kind of sad.
I feel the same way when someone makes a big deal out of my military service, or when I hold a door open, or do any of the stuff men SHOULD do.
It makes me sad because it has become noteworthy. I want to live in a world where such behavior is so commonplace as to be completely unremarkable.
Sorry. Not trying to bring anyone down.

Wayne Smith

04-05-2010, 07:43 AM

Dan, I agree with you, but we are far and away from that world and moving further away. It is only God that creates that, not man. The further away from Him we move the more evil predominates.

It is now the individual who shows the world what can be through God and prays for revival. Our society is post-Christian.

Sam, growth in Christ never ends until Glorification when we meet Him.

Ajax

04-05-2010, 09:39 AM

I am with you as well Dan. I too miss the "neighborhoods" of my youth when everyone helped each other with out thought of whats in it for me. I thought those days were long gone until this thread. It has restored some of my lost hope for humanity. I do believe the Lord had a hand in this and that is why it worked out for Sam and Julie. My prayers will remain with them throughout the year as do all of you on this fine forum.

Andy

.357

04-05-2010, 12:02 PM

what did my mama used to tell me " don't accept any praise for something your mama would want you to do" meaning, we did what was right, because we could and because it's what happened to be needed at the time. Enjoy the truck!

Bloodman14

04-05-2010, 01:52 PM

So, does the truck qualify as a 'Group Buy', or a 'Pay it Forward'?:kidding:
Seriously, gang, I hope it will last a LONG time, and I'm glad I could help!
Tim

geargnasher

04-05-2010, 02:38 PM

Well said, Brett.

Congratulations to the Wolfs on the new ride!

While we're sending out thanks, let's not forget to thank the other "Fathers", Ken and the crew who brought us together in the first place by creating this site.

Gear

shdwlkr

04-05-2010, 03:50 PM

Gunnerd
Yep it was a group buy with only one item and the winner was Sam and Julie. It isn't very often that you get a group that is scattered across a nation like we are that stand up and do something for someone for nothing. I am so glad to see that we did and just how well it turned out for all. We got to help a fellow member and his wife and we got to show that we really do care.
As to reward it was in the first post that Sam and Julie shown us the new ride they have and just how excited they are with it. Nothing more needed from my end and as has been said I hope it lasts a very looooooooooooooooong time and they just totally enjoy it.
Sam and Julie when the new wears off and you both come down off that cloud just think about all the friends here who were so happy to be able to do something nice for two nice people.
Now go and enjoy that ride and show it off, you both worked hard to get it and deserve to enjoy it. We here were just a very small part of the over all plan that worked so well in this case for all of us.
time for my cookies, milk and a nap old age does that to a fellow Ha Ha with six kids in the house and the youngest being 3, yea it is real quite here at usually 1 am.

oldhickory

04-05-2010, 04:09 PM

time for my cookies, milk and a nap old age does that to a fellow Ha Ha with six kids in the house and the youngest being 3, yea it is real quite here at usually 1 am.

You know, you got me doing the cookies and milk thing every evening now.[smilie=s: Oh well, there's worse vices I suppose...

shdwlkr

04-05-2010, 05:31 PM

oldhickory
Glad to be of use and don't eat more than 6 cookies it will get to you after time. Ha Ha
My doc says I need to loose some weight, now just have to figure out what to do in place of my milk and cookies. Nope not going to happen, I like my milk and cookies to much, will just have to cut down on the number. Like that will happen either as if I want them bad enough I bake my own and eat fast before the kids smell them and get to them. If they get to them I only have to worry about getting 3 maybe. Being old does slow a body down compared to teenagers.

oldhickory

04-05-2010, 06:06 PM

They don't last long around here either! I just use a small tea cup filled with milk and when the milk gets low...It's time to quit! 6-8 cookies usually.:wink:

gray wolf

04-06-2010, 09:56 PM

Well, while you men are enjoying your cookies and milk Julie and I have been busy getting the truck in shape. ( i am glad you guy's are all OK )
It goes in on Thursday for breaks all around and a muffler tail pipe. starter wire and a cable for the shift lever.
Tires? Wow--have you guy's seen what they want for tires lately ?? Oooff.
Glad we have some time to shop. Looks like two places to choose from Ugh, Walmart and
V.I.P. We have to pick the correct tire tread, would like to get by with one set.
More home-work to do. R-265/70 R17 --I think I got that right.
I hope everyone had a great weekend. We are getting it back together slowly bur surely.
I miss all the chit chat with all of you, But I know you are still there.
We love you all and talk about you folks all the time.

Your friends

Sam/ Julie

PatMarlin

04-07-2010, 12:20 AM

Lordy-

My tires wear just by looking at them... :mrgreen:

I'm up for a new set as well- 4x4 light truck tires? May as well be an Obama .gov official to be able to afford them.. :roll:

Buckshot

04-07-2010, 12:42 AM

Tires? Wow--have you guy's seen what they want for tires lately ?? Oooff.
Glad we have some time to shop. Looks like two places to choose from Ugh, Walmart and
V.I.P. We have to pick the correct tire tread, would like to get by with one set.
More home-work to do. R-265/70 R17 --I think I got that right.
Your friends

Sam/ Julie

...........If I might be so bold as to make a tire suggestion, I'd suggest you take a good look at Cooper Tires. They've been around a long time and have an excellent warranty on their tire life. Their tire life warranty runs for 6 years and that's from the INSTALLATION DATE and not the manufactured date. Be sure you ask about that whatever brand you end up putting on.

When we had 4 new ones put on our Ford Sport Trac, if you had 4 put on Cooper added 10,000 miles to the 60,000 mile treadlife warranty. Also make sure whoever installs the new tires provides free rotation, which most places seem to if you get 4. Timely rotation (especially on a 4wd) is a major positive in tire life besides proper inflation.

.................Buckshot

Bad Water Bill

04-07-2010, 01:10 AM

Recluse

04-07-2010, 01:14 AM

Ditto and +1 to everything Buckshot and Bad Water Bill said.

Most tires shops can also do a front-end alignment, and when you're having the tires installed is the time to do it.

:coffee:

Bret4207

04-07-2010, 06:59 AM

Since you are looking at tires Please have the wheel alignment checked and done if needed. There is no way of destroying good tires than having the front end out of adjustment.

I had 25 years of seeing good tires go by by because some people would never learn. Can you say gone in 1K miles. And that is NOT covered under tire warranty.

Enjoy the milk and cookies.

My Dad gave a new definition to the word "cheap". Back in the days when Montgomery Wards was still in business we had a store in town. Recaps were $7.50 a piece. An alignment was probably $25-30.00. Needless to say Dad never did get an alignment and the truck dog legging down the road got "new" skins every few hundred miles.

PatMarlin

04-07-2010, 07:51 AM

Mountain roads are tough on tires. The constant turning.

Down in the valley, tires would last for ever it seemed and brakes would wear out. Stop, go. Up in the woods it's just the oposit. I still believe the rubber over the past 5-8 years is junk compared to what it used to be. Some point, our country went to a lower grade, and I bet it had to do something with imported material.

gray wolf

04-07-2010, 08:13 AM

We live in the mts and yes, brakes go after a couple years and need replaced but tires only last a couple years also and we just don't put that many miles on in a year, (3,000?)

We bought a set for the old Dodge about 4 years ago? Within a couple years we had one go bad and they replaced it for a price. (Pro-rated it)

I think the tires are less than they used to be also.

Right now we are trying to figure out whether to get all-season or some good all-terrain or a set of winter tires and run what we have on it now summers, because of where we live.
The winters stretch out for about 6 months with either snow or muddy roads to deal with and we also go onto back roads hunting and just going to the range or even just getting to our house which is on a two-track private road.
We love to partridge hunt in the fall which is done by driving the back roads. We call the Ruffed grouse up here, road chickens cause they are usually out in the road most of the time. So the locals drive the back roads and get out when they see them and pop em. Works great for us old folks who can't walk for miles at a time anymore.

Snow can come anytime from Oct to May. Had a bad storm on April 27th a couple years ago that left us with almost two feet of heavy wet stuff that didn't get plowed cause the ground had thawed at that point. Nobody wanted to get stuck trying to plow it except on the main roads. To get out, we had to use the 4 wheel drive and just push thru it for a week or so.

So, we will be looking at tread types really carefully. The tires on it now should get thru the summer with no problem. It gives us some time to really shop for what we need. Any suggestions would be welcome also. We will take them all into consideration.

Julie
(who still loves the new truck)
Hugs to you all for helping us get it!

PatMarlin

04-07-2010, 08:43 AM

Winter and summer seperated sets are the way to go up in these parts.

longranger

04-07-2010, 09:20 AM

+1 on the Cooper tires, best tires for the price I have found, very good on snow and ice

Bloodman14

04-07-2010, 10:28 AM

FWIW, Wal-mart and other tire co.'s that carry Goodyear Wrangler's is clearing them out for about $60.00 apiece, because of the change to 20" tire/rims. My wife's '03 S-10 Crew takes 205/75-15's; I think Wal-mart has them in your size. They are an excellent tire, and last a good, long time. Get an alignment done!

shdwlkr

04-07-2010, 12:02 PM

Sam
Just put new tires on my truck last fall for $1300 for a set of 4. Nothing is cheap anymore.
Glad you are having fun with the new ride.

WickedGoodOutdoors

04-07-2010, 12:07 PM

Just go to the Junk yard and buy a second hand set from a truck that was totaled. I have had to do that many times.

Im looking at my tires and there getting pretty slick. I drove 26,000 miles on the truck last year for work on my diime and the company rewards me by letting me go. Been out of work since last August. 2009

I was not a truck driver mind you. I worked as an electrcian and took all the middle of the night drive 500 miles to fix somthing calls as well as the regular day to day work. Well at least Im not spending $1,000 a week on Gas anymore? Crazy!

There is no work in Maine and not much anywhere else either. Its only going to get worse for the economy and jobs.

I did see a half dozzen openings for Raytheon in Antartica. Are the summers there nice & warm? I wonder why they cant fill the jobs or keep employees there? I hear the Ploar Brear hunting is Great!

Seems the only jobs out there are someplace wicked Cold or someplace wicked HOT! Did you know that ME does not stand for Maine? Do some job searchs
on Monster.
http://www.joe-ks.com/archives_mar2007/PolarBearParty.gif

johnlaw484

04-07-2010, 12:08 PM

We tried to run Coopers on the county sheriff's cars Gravel roads) but they were gone in 20,000. Goodyear Eagles will run us 35,000. FYI

hoosierlogger

04-07-2010, 01:44 PM

Sam, I bought a set of Wild Country XTX radial tires in the same rim size. Plus I got a free 5 gallon bucket of wheel weights!! http://www.tbcprivatebrands.com/multimile/viewline.asp?id=285 They are an aggressive all terrain tire. I didn't want a mud tire, but I wanted more tread than just a regular all terrain tire also. The ones I got are severe snow rated and make very little noise on the dry pavement. The 10 ply were cheaper than the 6 ply, and the have more tread. They have almost 10,000 miles on them now and appear to be wearing evenly. It is time to rotate them as soon as the sky stops leaking. The shop I got them from had to order them and had them the next day. Mounted, balanced, and installed for $669 and some change.