As it gets older, the differential starts
slipping, and the U-joints get worn, causing the drive shaft to go bad. The transmission
won't go into high gear and sometimes has difficulty getting out of low.
The cylinders get worn and lose
compression, making it hard to climb the slightest incline. When it is climbing, the
tappets clatter and ping to the point where one wonders if the old bus will make it to the
top.
The carburetor gets fouled with pollutants
and other matter, making it hard to get started in the morning. It is hard to keep the
radiator filled because of the leaking hose.
The thermostat goes out, making it
difficult to reach operating temperature. The headlights grow dim, and the battery need
constant recharging.
But if the body looks good, we can keep it
washed and polished, giving the impression it can compete with newer models and make one
more trip down the primrose lane before the head gasket blows.
