OP
OP
JP7
Likes Canadian Mudbaths
Mad - after a lot of thought, you're exactly right. From the age of 15 to 27 I built or wrenched on many 4x4's and it was pretty much a lifestyle outside of work. The amount of time it takes to swap tranny's, motors, axles etc. was ok then because I was young, and based on budget allowances, I could do one piece at a time and feel the thrill of the improvements each time. Our club had runs Friday nights, Saturday nights, and Sunday mornings - and some weeks it was a challenge to 'duct tape' enough parts together to make the run.
But now I'm old, and in a position where 70 hours a week isn't always enough. And the type of hours I put in is resemblant to a lawyer - confict resolution or mediation is at least 60% of my time. So at the end of the day, I don't have a lot of energy to do a tranny swap let alone an oil change! Having and maintaining a $3,000 beater is just not an option right now. Beaters are great, based on the fact that you drive it like you stole it - but they ultimately involve money, and more importantly, time - to keep running.
Ford created this little monster at a perfect time in my life. Divorce, getting back on my feet from ground zero, a time consuming career - and out comes a turn key offroad weapon that requires no modifications to enjoy in many types of terrain. Re-lived old times? Hell yeah. Restored that young feeling again - double hell yeah.
Sure, it came with a price tag of 58 grand (canadian) but I can honestly confirm that it's worth every penny. If I had to sell at 10 grand tomorrow, I would simply smile, as the 8 months of fun I've had have made up for years of smiles and memories.
You're right - I feel like a kid again
. Although a kid with an adult concience. I had a 19 yr old passenger on this run, and it certainly affected the level of preparedness for the dangerous parts with steep drop offs. There were several parts of the trail which could have ended in demise for both driver and passenger - I am much less fearfull when I am the only occupant - but when someone else's life is at stake, that raises the bar for making the run without a mistake.But that's all part of wheeling. Knowing the limits and at times, pushing the envelope.
All in all, I agree - I have re-lived my mis-spent youth, and can't wait for the next run in the trails.
