Reminiscing about older vehicles

[Kenneth in Texas]

Having lived when there were vehicles that just needed spark, air and gas to run to having these new modern computer controlled vehicles that have so many sensors, fuel injection and a host of other new things it just makes me wonder if the older type cars and trucks were better. Seems new vehicles last a lot longer as opposed to many years ago, If they hit 100k miles in the old days they were pretty well done by that time, now its not uncommon to go several hundred thousand miles and still be running good.

Reason im reminising right now is this is the 4 time in the last 2 years i have been stranded in my 2010 dodge truck, all 4 times from little plastic plug sensors that cost under $40 With all the technology at our fingertips it just seems in a lot of aspects we are going backwards. I just never remember being stranded on the side of the road or way out in a field long ago over such stupid looking little made mexico or china parts.

The more we advance, the more we loose simplicity in things, least it seems that way to me.

 

[TomSeller]

I agree that a little sensor should not strand a vehicle. I think in general vehicles are MUCH more reliable these days even though they are much more complicated. I recall people amazed that a car ran 100,000 miles on the SAME ENGINE!

I buy from the big 3 American car companies (mostly Ford) and do pay more attention to cost, safety and reliability than performance, looks and features. Reliability is very important.

 

[Rustyiron]

Chances are that little sensor was part of the emissions BS. Your post just got me thinking, out of curiosity, I wonder the total # all of parts on a 60's Impala vs. today's model. Same go's for the amount/legnth of wire.
I guess in the end, some annoying electrical issues vs. (at least) doubling the useable life of the vehicle is worth it.

 

[TomSeller]

I don't think Gomer OR Goober at Wally's Filling Station could fix the newer cars.

 

[SirReal63]

This is exactly why I recently picked up a 94 F350 IDI turbo diesel. No computers at all and no sensors that will stop the engine from running. The most complicated electronic device in it is the radio.

 

[Kenneth in Texas]

sensors of mine that have left me stranded are 2 camshaft position, 1 idle control and 1 crankshaft, man im being sensored to death.

 

[/pine]

It's fun to reminisce...I would give a lot to have a few of the vehicles from my past back in showroom condition...
One, a '65' Rambler station wagon 3 speed w/ overdrive...
Two, a '72' GMC 1 ton (4x4) stake bed dump truck...
Three, an '82' AMC (4x4) Eagle hatchback wagon...

 

[quicksandfarmer]

Remember when vehicles required significant maintenance every 3,000 miles? When they wouldn't start if it was really cold or really hot? When 100,000 miles was an accomplishment?

Today's cars, you change the oil once a year. New tires every couple of years. Otherwise, you turn the key and drive.

 

[TomSeller]

New tires every couple of years.

I have 160,000 miles on a set now. Medium rated traction. Best ever for me. More than engines used to do.

 

[ultrarunner]

Computers on wheels are great until something goes wrong.... even when it is something minor and the vehicle runs fine... it can cost a fortune to track it down so you're good to go as far as passing the emission test.

Most of vehicles are old... several over 100 years old... and yes... there are all kinds of shade tree fixes that could get you back to town and farther down the road.

Several of my friends have been absolutely stranded in the middle of nowhere... everything was covered... one had his new 3000 mile Yukon in the shop for 3 weeks until they dropped in an entire new powertrain unit complete from the factory with the old one going back...

Too bad the advances in materials and design need a myriad of sensors and feedback loops working in harmony with little tolerance...

Cars have become more disposable and older one impossible or too costly to fix.