Safety is overrated

[Imp67cc64@xxxxxxx]

In a message dated 3/15/02 12:29:52 AM Eastern Daylight Time, 
pctocso@xxxxxxxx writes:

<< If you know your machine and KNOW (deeply) how to
 drive it and exactly what it is and isn't capable of
 you can overcome many "Drawbacks."  >>

Timothy,
I think saying that safety is overrated is a little strong, but I definitely 
concur that if our original cars, especially late 50's or newer, are truly 
maintained properly and driven lovingly for what they are, they are very 
roadworthy and safe.  They are not ever going to compete with today's cars in 
braking and handling capabilities, nor should they be challanged to.  I think 
minor upgrades are fine, like dual reservior master cylinders, but total 
changeovers are a real turnoff.  I will not buy a car that has been messed 
with because I do not care to beg the clowns at the parts counters to try to 
determine what parts have been retrofitted to my car when something goes 
wrong.  It is already bad enough when they have to use the books to look up 
something that isn't on there computer.  They look at me as if I am asking 
the world to get a book listed item fo my early 60's car, so I know they will 
not be cooperative when asked to find "this item in this size, but I don't 
know what it is off of".

I also find a lot of pride in keeping my cars original; just as they were 
built.  Anyone can take the easy route and find something that will get the 
job done, but I prefer to do it as it should be done to maintain the car to 
original standards.  It does cost more sometimes and can be very frustrating 
when parts are difficult to get at a moments notice, but I know it is correct 
when it gets done.  I recently did a Fl trip (from GA) in a newly acquired 60 
Cadillac with air suspension.  I knew I ran the risk of problems traveling in 
a car that I was not totally familiar with, but it was a consideration I made 
before deciding to go.  I had a problem with the air suspension  and had to 
have parts shipped next-day air.  It cost a bit, but I got it on the road the 
next day and am proud to have one of very few 57-60 Cadillacs that still 
rides on air suspension.

John -- 78 NYB
Atlanta