My '82 F-100 flunked the GA emissions test, and my mechanic said he can order a new carb for it (he gave me an okay on 2nd test). I understand that he doesn't want to waste time w/garbage, but I feel he's gonna slap me with an expensive carb. The truck sat at his shop for a week. I bought oil, filter, pcv valve, pvc filter, plugs, wires, distributor cap, rotor, etc. etc. I had called him to set it up a week earlier. He's excellent, but working alone. After 4 days I called and said I was coming to get the truck today (day 5) no matter what. He did nothing else to it, but give my wife the emissions ok (which I'm thankful for). I always call in advance, get the parts (to save $ and time), leave him a list, Haynes book, and my phone #, AND a car magazine (Hot Rod this time). I pay immediately and am very thankful and polite. But it's always a week before he starts a simple job. I know he's in demand... I took it in about a year ago. He put a NEW carb on, and then decided I needed a new/used 300 inline 6 from an '86...okay, that COST me $1400 bucks...he put the new carb on the '86, and now it needs another??? I'm on the edge of being fired for missing time, and I'm 52 (forklift driver)...this week cost me another $250 to rent a Cavalier :+( I can't buy another vehicle. No buses, taxiis to work (rural Ga)...this is driving me NUTS! So many mechanics are crooked and/or stupid, I guess I'm lucky... I'm going to get the truck tomorrow a.m. and get the part # off the carb (1-barrel). I can't "do" carbs myself, etc. I see carbs on ebay for $10-$75...can I get a junkyard carb and hope? I know - bite the bullet and listen to him....geez - my wife drives a
2000 Focus that's ready to implode, and I know about dealer stories... I know I'm lucky, should talk to the guy, getURdun while I wait, etc... anybody reading my insomniac rambling - thanks! and ideas? MANY thanks! (sorry for ranting) :+) Paul- posted
19 years ago