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The Car Thread ... !

bunnspecial said:
I'd love an SS...
Click to expand...
Same
Relentless Power said:
The 9C3 was the detective package from
2011-2014, the 9C1 Patrol Version was from 2014 onward. The 9C3 has an updated dual-zone climate control and touchscreen HVAC system. The 9C3 is way more “domesticated” Over the 9C1 because it didn’t have the all the center console space for patrol version requirements. The 9C3 also had a floor shifter, which changed after 2014. If you find one, I would try to opt for _low_ mileage, request a repair history, follow up on recalls, as they were reported to experience Displacement on Demand/Cam & lifter problems.

In my area, the 9C3/9C1 only was adopted by three agencies, which they quickly retired those units in place of the Utility Explorer. You can find the 9C3 used in government auctions, if you have legal accessibility. Sedans [More specifically the PP Taurus] were falling apart in the L.E. field for necessary space requirements (Leg room), and they just were Not favored compared to the Crown Vic trunk space, although I heard the seats were very comfortable in the 9C3, comparable to the Crown Vic wide plush seats. The Utility Explorer seats are terrible.

Personally, I wouldn’t opt for the 9C3, but if you find one with a documented history in solid condition with not an excessive amount of mileage, its still a decent buy. But just be aware what I mentioned about the mechanicals, as there is ample discussion/reports on this.
Click to expand...
That's why I am looking for a 9C3 over a 9C1 but ideally I want an SS or a Pontiac G8 GXP. Thanks for the tips because I don't want something with problems or that could become problematic later. I wasn't aware of the problems on the Caprice do you know if the SS has the same problems? I'm looking for an American V8 rear wheel drive sedan and that limits the list and I want something that isn't a Dodge Charger or Chrysler 300 because they're everywhere
 
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I'm waiting for the Kentucky State Police to start surplussing out their Caprices...They've had them 4 or 5 years, so I think that they'll probably start going before too long.

KSP cars tend to be fairly high mileage when they're surplussed(100K+) but they actually spend a fair bit of time driving at speed and don't have as much time idling or being driven at low speeds/stop and go as you might get with a city police car.
 
americafirst said:
do you know if the SS has the same problems? I'm looking for an American V8 rear wheel drive sedan and that limits the list and I want something that isn't a Dodge Charger or Chrysler 300 because they're everywhere
Click to expand...

I’m not aware (Or heard) of any issues with the SS sedan 6.2 L, only the 6.0L with the 93C/9C1. Your options are fairly limited with a V-8 sedan, as aforementioned, if you can find a 93C used with low miles, it’s still a decent buy. But it really depends on your region and they are not really commonly found because of the Ford PP vehicle program, but I would check auction sites for a starting point.

Just as a reference and I gather the Charger is not on your preference sheet, I use the AWD Charger RT Pursuit rated model, and enjoy every second of it. I Actually just qualified with EVOC two weeks back and I had my best test passing with any squad I have ever used. If you can find one of those, or if you have not driven one, experience it (I would opt for the 2015). The 5.7/AWD drive makes a significant difference how it handles, power is decent, excellent seats, UConnect is highly responsive, and I know this isn’t really much of a highlighted area, but the steering wheel is one of most robust steering wheels I have ever used for control purposes. Visibility is subpar, but that’s to be expected just about with *any* squad.

But since your original goal was the SS sedan, that’s what I would try to find, as they are one of the ultimate sleepers on the roadway, four doors, decent tech, power, ect. Just be prepared to pay a small premium now with the recent discontinuation and limited production models. 2017 year had some nice updates that almost swayed me from the SHO.
 
Relentless Power said:
I’m not aware (Or heard) of any issues with the SS sedan 6.2 L, only the 6.0L with the 93C/9C1. Your options are fairly limited with a V-8 sedan, as aforementioned, if you can find a 93C used with low miles, it’s still a decent buy. But it really depends on your region and they are not really commonly found because of the Ford PP vehicle program, but I would check auction sites for a starting point.

Just as a reference and I gather the Charger is not on your preference sheet, I use the AWD Charger RT Pursuit rated model, and enjoy every second of it. I Actually just qualified with EVOC two weeks back and I had my best test passing with any squad I have ever used. If you can find one of those, or if you have not driven one, experience it (I would opt for the 2015). The 5.7/AWD drive makes a significant difference how it handles, power is decent, excellent seats, UConnect is highly responsive, and I know this isn’t really much of a highlighted area, but the steering wheel is one of most robust steering wheels I have ever used for control purposes. Visibility is subpar, but that’s to be expected just about with *any* squad.

But since your original goal was the SS sedan, that’s what I would try to find, as they are one of the ultimate sleepers on the roadway, four doors, decent tech, power, ect. Just be prepared to pay a small premium now with the recent discontinuation and limited production models. 2017 year had some nice updates that almost swayed me from the SHO.
Click to expand...
It seems like the end of the V-8 sedan era is here sadly! That's good that the SS didn't have the issues the 9C3/9C1 sedans had although I was unaware of the engine difference 6.2L and 6.0L respectfully. I've seen a few 9C3s on Autotrader and eBay Motors but they had the V-6 and not the V-8

I like the Charger and 300 but they are more common and I wanted something that stood out. I was unaware there was a pursuit rated AWD Dodge Charger that's awesome! Is it a new model or not? I have had a few Chargers and 300s as rental cars and liked them but I wanted something less common. Why would you recommend the 2015? I haven't really used UConnect on the rental cars I had so it's good to hear it's responsive

I ultimately want an SS sedan but they are almost impossible to find for a reasonable price. Which updates did the 2017 get
 
americafirst said:
I was unaware there was a pursuit rated AWD Dodge Charger that's awesome! Is it a new model or not?
Click to expand...

As in ‘new’ with my [Work] Charger RT, yes, its a 2017. Or if you mean as in ‘new’ with Dodge introducing a Pursuit Rated RT? Thats not new. The new P.P Tahoe is pursuit rated as well. In order to qualify-pursuit rated, it has to be tested at certain speeds, include suspension upgrades, equip specific tires, and be state certified/inspected.

See Picture here:

https://forums.macrumors.com/threads/picture-of-your-car-2018.2098780/page-4#post-26170927


americafirst said:
I ultimately want an SS sedan but they are almost impossible to find for a reasonable price. Which updates did the 2017 get
Click to expand...

Its rather dramatic in the 2017 changes:

  • Cosmetics with the SS badge in the front fascia of the bumper
  • LED lights instead of fog lights
  • Integrated heat extractors into the hood
  • Quad exhaust in the rear
  • Magnetic ride control
  • 2017 rear bumper doesn’t have the plastic bordering, as its painted now to match the vehicle
  • 2017 also has a sound tube going to the firewall, where you can hear the engine.
  • Different wheel design/19” aluminum alloy
  • “4” Driving modes (Tour, Sports Performance) Also, by pressing the traction control button twice, it permits ‘Competitive mode’, basically disables stability/traction.)
  • 2016/2017 CD Delete

americafirst said:
Why would you recommend the 2015?
Click to expand...

From a civilian standpoint with the Dodge Charger RT, 2015 was a major refresh all the way around.

From the exterior cues, the Charger received completely new LED headlights from the front as I’m sure you noticed, A slimmer grill, the tail lights are more refined with LEDs in the back being slim-lined, new hood design, all new wheel designs.

Interior was Upgraded with the steering wheel, shifter, less “Plasticky” materials with the 2015 and more touch soft materials used, gauge cluster was refined. New safety options were added with lane departure/lane keeping assist. UConnect for being proprietary to Dodge, probably is be best native infotainment compared to all the other competitors (i.e Sync, Mylink, Entune)

Performance wise, the 2015 significant upgrade was with the eight speed automatic, which the 2014 was a five speed. (Only the AWD base is offered for the P.P model).

All-around, 2015 is just a much more improved model over the 2014 both aesthetics, performance, exterior styling, etc. That’s why I suggested if you do consider V8 sedan, consider the 2015 Charger and above for said reasons.

The model I wanted originally from Dodge for my personal vehicle was the Dodge charger RT Scat pack (In the stunning ‘Plum crazy’ color), which has different design cues, larger 6.4l/485 HP, improved braking/suspension tweaks, Zinc paddle shifters, Tremec Six Speed, ect. Part of me is glad that I did *not* opt for the Scat pack, because now I drive the Dodge Charger RT for work, and I think that would have been too much conflation and maybe have taken away some of the enjoyment having two Chargers, even though both of those models have core differences.

But my next joy rider in the next few years, will either be a 17’ HellCat [Have not Decided Charger or Challenger] or a 17’ GT350, (Even Considering a ZL1).
 
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bunnspecial said:
I thought all SSs had this
Click to expand...

Yep, wrong info, here's a correct MY changelog (F55 wasn't all years, but it was introduced in '15 not '17):


2015 Changes:

New Features
- (MN6) 6-speed manual transmission with (G84) 3.70 rear axle ratio (MT removes remote start)
- (F55) Magnetic Selective Ride Control with torque vectoring and launch control
- (VV4) OnStar with 4G LTE and redesigned lower-profile antenna
- OnStar Basic plan standard for 5 years
- (G6K) Some Like It Hot Red Metallic exterior color
- (G6P) Jungle Green Metallic exterior color
- (G5Q) Regal Peacock Green Metallic exterior color
- (GNT) Perfect Blue Metallic exterior color
- (GWR) Alchemy Purple Metallic exterior color

Changes
- 14.2" rear Brembo brakes
- Front license plate bracket RPO changed from (VKD) to (VK3)
- Rear diffuser now painted gloss black
- Reverse camera now has guidelines

Deletions
- Pop-out cupholders from rear center seat bottom cushion

2016 Changes:

New Features
- (NPP) Dual-mode exhaust with Bailie Tip for "improved" sound through trunk
- Air intake kazoo tube for "improved" sound through intake
- LED front signature lighting that stays on with headlights
- (GO5) Slipstream Blue Metallic exterior color

Changes
- (RO3) 19″ polished forged aluminum wheel design changed to ultra-bright, machined-face, cast aluminum
- Powertrain warranty still 5 years, but dropped from 100,000 miles to 60,000 miles
- Mid-cycle enhancements: Added functional hood vents, changed front fascia appearance with SS logo on front grille, added front fascia ducts for aerodynamic improvement
- Brembo brake calipers are now colored red

Deletions
- CD player
- 3.5mm auxiliary input jack
- (T3U) Fog lamps
- (GNT) Perfect Blue Metallic exterior color
- (GWR) Alchemy Purple Metallic exterior color

2017 Changes:

New Features
- (GPF) Nightfall Gray Metallic exterior color
- (G8N) Orange Blast Metallic exterior color (+$395)

Deletions
- (GZ7) Mystic Green Metallic exterior color
- (G6K) Some Like It Hot Red Metallic exterior color
- (G6P) Jungle Green Metallic exterior color


Lighting info seems to be incorrect as well, this was done, according the above and Wikipedia for MY16:

For the 2016 model, Chevrolet announced that the SS would receive a facelifted front design revised LED lighting, dual mode exhaust system, a new "Slipstream Blue" paint colour (replacing "Perfect Blue" and "Alchemy Purple Metallic"), red Brembo brake calipers and an updated wheel design (with cast aluminum construction, as opposed to the forged aluminum wheels used previously).[68]

For the 2017 model year, three exterior colours were removed (Some Like It Hot Red metallic, Jungle Green metallic, and Mystic Green metallic) and two colours were added: Orange Blast and Nightfall Gray Metallic.[69] This was also the final year of the SS, as Chevrolet announced on 9 January 2017 that with the Commodore ending production in Australia there are no plans for a successor.[70]


Here's the SS production info, just to get a sense of how many cars (and the % that would have things like F55 (BOTN tells me ~ 77%)


upload_2018-7-3_9-50-2.png
 
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Relentless Power said:
As in ‘new’ with my [Work] Charger RT, yes, its a 2017. Or if you mean as in ‘new’ with Dodge introducing a Pursuit Rated RT? Thats not new. The new P.P Tahoe is pursuit rated as well. In order to qualify-pursuit rated, it has to be tested at certain speeds, include suspension upgrades, equip specific tires, and be state certified/inspected.

See Picture here:

https://forums.macrumors.com/threads/picture-of-your-car-2018.2098780/page-4#post-26170927
Click to expand...
Nice looking ride and thanks for the explanation! Am I correct in assuming the Dodge Charger RT AWD is not available on the civilian market? I only see the AWD in SE and SXT trim after 2014. If it's still available the Charger RT AWD will be on my list since I enjoyed the Chargers I have had as a rental car
Relentless Power said:
Its rather dramatic in the 2017 changes:

  • Cosmetics with the SS badge in the front fascia of the bumper
  • LED lights instead of fog lights
  • Integrated heat extractors into the hood
  • Quad exhaust in the rear
  • Magnetic ride control
  • 2017 rear bumper doesn’t have the plastic bordering, as its painted now to match the vehicle
  • 2017 also has a sound tube going to the firewall, where you can hear the engine.
  • Different wheel design/19” aluminum alloy
  • “4” Driving modes (Tour, Sports Performance) Also, by pressing the traction control button twice, it permits ‘Competitive mode’, basically disables stability/traction.)
  • 2016/2017 CD Delete
Click to expand...
Thanks that's enough changes to consider only the 2017
Relentless Power said:
From a civilian standpoint with the Dodge Charger RT, 2015 was a major refresh all the way around.

From the exterior cues, the Charger received completely new LED headlights from the front as I’m sure you noticed, A slimmer grill, the tail lights are more refined with LEDs in the back being slim-lined, new hood design, all new wheel designs.

Interior was Upgraded with the steering wheel, shifter, less “Plasticky” materials with the 2015 and more touch soft materials used, gauge cluster was refined. New safety options were added with lane departure/lane keeping assist. UConnect for being proprietary to Dodge, probably is be best native infotainment compared to all the other competitors (i.e Sync, Mylink, Entune)

Performance wise, the 2015 significant upgrade was with the eight speed automatic, which the 2014 was a five speed. (Only the AWD base is offered for the P.P model).

All-around, 2015 is just a much more improved model over the 2014 both aesthetics, performance, exterior styling, etc. That’s why I suggested if you do consider V8 sedan, consider the 2015 Charger and above for said reasons.

The model I wanted originally from Dodge for my personal vehicle was the Dodge charger RT Scat pack (In the stunning ‘Plum crazy’ color), which has different design cues, larger 6.4l/485 HP, improved braking/suspension tweaks, Zinc paddle shifters, Tremec Six Speed, ect. Part of me is glad that I did *not* opt for the Scat pack, because now I drive the Dodge Charger RT for work, and I think that would have been too much conflation and maybe have taken away some of the enjoyment having two Chargers, even though both of those models have core differences.

But my next joy rider in the next few years, will either be a 17’ HellCat [Have not Decided Charger or Challenger] or a 17’ GT350, (Even Considering a ZL1).
Click to expand...
Thanks for the explanation! The eight speed transmission alone is a reason to get a 2015 or newer
D.T. said:
Yep, wrong info, here's a correct MY changelog (F55 wasn't all years, but it was introduced in '15 not '17):


2015 Changes:

New Features
- (MN6) 6-speed manual transmission with (G84) 3.70 rear axle ratio (MT removes remote start)
- (F55) Magnetic Selective Ride Control with torque vectoring and launch control
- (VV4) OnStar with 4G LTE and redesigned lower-profile antenna
- OnStar Basic plan standard for 5 years
- (G6K) Some Like It Hot Red Metallic exterior color
- (G6P) Jungle Green Metallic exterior color
- (G5Q) Regal Peacock Green Metallic exterior color
- (GNT) Perfect Blue Metallic exterior color
- (GWR) Alchemy Purple Metallic exterior color

Changes
- 14.2" rear Brembo brakes
- Front license plate bracket RPO changed from (VKD) to (VK3)
- Rear diffuser now painted gloss black
- Reverse camera now has guidelines

Deletions
- Pop-out cupholders from rear center seat bottom cushion

2016 Changes:

New Features
- (NPP) Dual-mode exhaust with Bailie Tip for "improved" sound through trunk
- Air intake kazoo tube for "improved" sound through intake
- LED front signature lighting that stays on with headlights
- (GO5) Slipstream Blue Metallic exterior color

Changes
- (RO3) 19″ polished forged aluminum wheel design changed to ultra-bright, machined-face, cast aluminum
- Powertrain warranty still 5 years, but dropped from 100,000 miles to 60,000 miles
- Mid-cycle enhancements: Added functional hood vents, changed front fascia appearance with SS logo on front grille, added front fascia ducts for aerodynamic improvement
- Brembo brake calipers are now colored red

Deletions
- CD player
- 3.5mm auxiliary input jack
- (T3U) Fog lamps
- (GNT) Perfect Blue Metallic exterior color
- (GWR) Alchemy Purple Metallic exterior color

2017 Changes:

New Features
- (GPF) Nightfall Gray Metallic exterior color
- (G8N) Orange Blast Metallic exterior color (+$395)

Deletions
- (GZ7) Mystic Green Metallic exterior color
- (G6K) Some Like It Hot Red Metallic exterior color
- (G6P) Jungle Green Metallic exterior color


Lighting info seems to be incorrect as well, this was done, according the above and Wikipedia for MY16:

For the 2016 model, Chevrolet announced that the SS would receive a facelifted front design revised LED lighting, dual mode exhaust system, a new "Slipstream Blue" paint colour (replacing "Perfect Blue" and "Alchemy Purple Metallic"), red Brembo brake calipers and an updated wheel design (with cast aluminum construction, as opposed to the forged aluminum wheels used previously).[68]

For the 2017 model year, three exterior colours were removed (Some Like It Hot Red metallic, Jungle Green metallic, and Mystic Green metallic) and two colours were added: Orange Blast and Nightfall Gray Metallic.[69] This was also the final year of the SS, as Chevrolet announced on 9 January 2017 that with the Commodore ending production in Australia there are no plans for a successor.[70]


Here's the SS production info, just to get a sense of how many cars (and the % that would have things like F55 (BOTN tells me ~ 77%)


View attachment 768807
Click to expand...
Thanks
 
americafirst said:
Am I correct in assuming the Dodge Charger RT AWD is not available on the civilian market?
Click to expand...

Correct. As previously mentioned, The Dodge Charger V8 P.P AWD is not available to the civilian market anymore. That change was direct with the introduction of the 2015 model. The deletion of the AWD frustrated *a lot* of buyers when they made that exclusive to the LE sector. I can see why, because it makes a significant difference in handling, responsiveness and for those who do have more adverse winter climates, that’s a major benefit to have year round. Anecdotally, I think Dodge made this change to provide some more leverage in the law-enforcement market for agencies who wanted a sedan with the AWD V-8 RT to compete against Fords P.P program. However, it’s inevitable, because agencies can have the Utility Explorer in AWD with similar power, addtional cargo room and now {With Ford} it’s leading electric from the latest rumors (I posted an article a few pages back on this). Which, will be a huge upshift for the L.E. segment once again. V8’s are essentially nonexistent in comparison to turbocharged 4/6 cylinder engines, in the very least in the Law field.
 
Last edited:
Relentless Power said:
Correct. As previously mentioned, The Dodge Charger V8 P.P AWD is not available to the civilian market anymore. That change was direct with the introduction of the 2015 model. The deletion of the AWD frustrated *a lot* of buyers when they made that exclusive to the LE sector. I can see why, because it makes a significant difference in handling, responsiveness and for those who do have more adverse winter climates, that’s a major benefit to have year round. Anecdotally, I think Dodge made this change to provide some more leverage in the law-enforcement market for agencies who wanted a sedan with the V-8 RT to compete against Fords P.P program. However, it’s inevitable, because agencies can have the Utility Explorer in AWD with similar power, addtional cargo room and now {With Ford} it’s leading electric from the latest rumors (I posted an article a few pages back on this). Which, will be a huge upshift for the L.E. segment once again. V8’s are essentially nonexistent in comparison to turbocharged 4/6 cylinder engines, in the very least in the Law field.
Click to expand...
Thanks! I would be frustrated too even though I live in the south I do drive to Pennsylvania a few times a year and in the winter AWD helps. I wish V-8s were more popular. A few weeks ago I drove a 2017 Expedition my agency has and the 3.5L V-6 is underpowered in that vehicle. My g ride Explorer has a 3.5L but it's non EcoBoost and it doesn't feel underpowered like the Expedition. As for the electric Interceptor Utility I am not sold on electric or hybrid power but it will be interesting to watch how it sells
 
americafirst said:
Does anyone here have a Toyota 4Runner? I saw a TRD Off-Road on my drive home this morning and like it! How is the durability and how does it handle off road? I looked online and it appears the 4Runner doesn't h ave Android Auto or CarPlay is this correct? I will start looking at new cars this week to replace my current car
Click to expand...

They get a lot of money for the 4Runner considering how dated it is. The tech is ancient on it. Toyota has been very reluctant to install CarPlay, I think it’s coming out on some 2019 models. I wouldn’t expect it in the T4R anytime soon though.

The Lexus GX, which is related to the 4Runner is pretty much the same story. It’s a very dated car at this point that they still get top dollar for.

The X3 is definitely the most modern and technologically advanced option. You won’t get the unbeatable Toyota/Lexus reliability and longevity though.

I’d also take a look at the Volvo XC60.
 
Apple fanboy said:
Beautiful. Needs to be in dark green though.
Click to expand...

I absolutely agree. A Dark green color scheme on a vehicle has _always_ been a preference of mine , and include brown saddle leather inside for the interior, and that’s a clear winner for me. Stunning vehicle, though.
 
Relentless Power said:
I absolutely agree. A Dark green color scheme on a vehicle has _always_ been a preference of mine , and include brown saddle leather inside for the interior, and that’s a clear winner for me. Stunning vehicle, though.
Click to expand...
Cream or brown leather for me. An old boss had an Aston Martin Vantige in green with cream leather. It was beautiful.
 
Apple fanboy said:
Cream or brown leather for me. An old boss had an Aston Martin Vantige in green with cream leather. It was beautiful.
Click to expand...

Nice. I know there are different grades of leather and quality, I just think as leather ages, brown, cream or lighter color leather ages better compared to black leather that will show more cracks and wear over time.
 
Apple fanboy said:
Beautiful. Needs to be in dark green though.
Click to expand...

British Racing Green is the only correct color for a British sports car :)

To be fair, there are cars that I don't think look good in it(I think there's a reason why it was never a factory color for the MGA) but I've never seen an Aston look bad in it.
 
A.Goldberg said:
They get a lot of money for the 4Runner considering how dated it is. The tech is ancient on it. Toyota has been very reluctant to install CarPlay, I think it’s coming out on some 2019 models. I wouldn’t expect it in the T4R anytime soon though.

The Lexus GX, which is related to the 4Runner is pretty much the same story. It’s a very dated car at this point that they still get top dollar for.

The X3 is definitely the most modern and technologically advanced option. You won’t get the unbeatable Toyota/Lexus reliability and longevity though.

I’d also take a look at the Volvo XC60.
Click to expand...
Thanks I will take a look at the Volvo XC60 when I start looking this week
 
americafirst said:
Thanks I will take a look at the Volvo XC60 when I start looking this week
Click to expand...

Im in the market for a new car right now. At the moment I think the XC60 T6 Inscription AWD is at the top of my list if I opt to go with a midsize SUV. It’s a good looking car, lots of available features, beautiful interior, etc. It’s also a nice car without wearing an overly ostentatious badge.

That said, I think I’d rather have a sedan, but my GF has an S60 and we’d like to have an SUV in the family. I’m not a huge Mercedes fan generally but I do really like the E400. In terms of midsize SUVs the F-Pace, Cayenne, and Range Rover Sport are also of interest. The latter two are pretty expensive though. Another part of me however wonders if I should just spend $35,000 or perhaps less on a high end CPO Grand Cherokee or Lexus IS.

My current car is a 2009 535i xDrive that is as a hand-me-down from my dad back in 2013. Now that it’s almost 10 years old and has well over 100k, it’s time to think about replacements. Ever since I threatened to replace it however it’s had virtually no issues. I guess that’s the way it works. At this point I’m kind of hanging on until the next big thing breaks. It’s otherwise in very good condition.
 
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Reactions: 0388631 and Gutwrench
God help me if I go through a third mid-life crisis. Already seen the stuff my two work partners have bought over the years. Or to quote one of them, I complain and yet I have my eyes set on excess myself. I think a wagon is a perfectly fine vehicle and normal to drive.

A.Goldberg said:
That said, I think I’d rather have a sedan, but my GF has an S60 and we’d like to have an SUV in the family.
Click to expand...
Family eh? Is that a hint at something? :)
[doublepost=1530666921][/doublepost]That Aston is alright. Front end needs to be slimmer. Rear is nice but I get a strong Porsche vibe from it. Not liking that forged carbon fiber. Looks straight out of a Mansory catalog.
 
So, here's a bit of a funny story(or at least I thought it was) that happened to me today.

There are bumper stickers circulating around sometimes put on LBCs that say something to the effect of "The parts falling off this car represent the finest in British engineering."

I was walking to my car today and just happened to see something interesting. Since I work at a university, parking is a bit spread out, and unless I luck into a spot in the 7-spot lot right next to our building, I end up parking a quarter mile away. None the less, I almost always drive by and check.

I just happened to look down on the ground across the street from my building and there was a spring up against the curb. It looked familiar, and when I picked it up I was 99% sure it was an MGB throttle return spring. Since my MG is the only one I ever see, I'm also 99% sure it was from my car.

Fortunately, though, if it's from mine there's an innocent explanation. There are 4 of these springs on the car. Each throttle shaft has its own, there's one in the center of the throttle linkage, and one on the choke(or I should say "fuel enrichment circuit") linkage that makes sure it stays retracted. While all four SHOULD be there, the two throttle plate ones are the only absolutely critical ones.

In any case, I've had the carbs off the car quite a few times in the past several months. Given how fiddly these springs are to attach, and considering that they're under $1 each, I ordered a half dozen replacements. Every time I go to refit them, I almost always drop at least one(the one on the throttle linkage is a real bear to get in place). Most dropped parts and tools on the MG fall right out the bottom of the engine compartment(unlike on modern cars, where they seem to accumulate in the plastic splash guards all over the bottom), but these seem to fall into deep recesses and are difficult to retrieve.

I haven't driven the MG to work in a couple of weeks. Sometimes, though, if I get most of the way to the car and realize I've forgotten something, I'll drive to the rather steep loading dock and park there long enough to run back inside and get whatever I forgot. I remember doing this a couple of weeks ago in the MG(it's always memorable since I don't trust the parking brake alone and always shut it down and put it in gear-I leave most other cars running for the trip inside to emphasize that I'm only parked temporarily). I'm guessing it fell out and then, over the course of a few weeks, made it across the street.
 
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