My car broke down again today. I was driving merrily down the A2 towards Bluewater, at 70 mph, when the car engine started to rattle. I really didn't like the sound of the rattle, so I pulled over onto the hard shoulder.The A2 is actually more like a motorway at that point (obviously, or I wouldn't be doing 70 mph... or at least I wouldn't be blogging about it!) so I had to get out of the car on the passenger side.
I am not the most agile of people, so this manoeuvre wasn't the easiest to accomplish. At least this time I didn't end up with my feet stuck above the dashboard as I attempted to get over the gear stick. It didn't help that lorries were thundering past, making my little Hyundai shake.
However, I finally succeeded in getting out, and clambered over the small crash barrier at the side. I couldn't walk very far away because of the bushes growing there, but I thought I was probably at a safe enough distance.
And then it started to rain...
Luckily my breakdown service arrived pretty quickly.
The damage was self-inflicted, and I really could kick myself... I had forgotten to check the oil, and the engine, although fine when idling, is now making a nasty rattle when revved... and, since it couldn't be fixed at the road side, I was driven home again.
The engine will need stripping, and probably replacing. I wouldn't mind, but I have only just had the gearbox done... At this rate I'll have a new car by Christmas...
oh poor you, Mac!
ReplyDeleteI know you say it's your own fault, but it's still not a nice thing to happen... :(
Salute! and commiserations ...
ReplyDeletePrayers from here, Mac!
ReplyDeleteThat's just nasty business...the whole vehicle-thingy is just a major headache (believe me, I know!).
Just have a shot of whatever and pray to St. Joseph...he's got us out of many a "pickle" here:<)!
Nasty rattle when revved
ReplyDeleteYep, that's probably quite nasty. Depends whether it's a high rattle or a low rattle. If the "big ends" are gorn, that's a major job. But still cheaper than buying a new motor from Dodgy Duncan in Blackfen Road ("Come and haggle with me over a cup of tea and a fairy cake.")...
Sorry to hear of your troubles and especially of another stop on the A2. At least the car was the right way up this time!
Dear Mulier F,
ReplyDeletePlease let the world know about this:
http://catholicheritage.blogspot.com/2010/05/little-sisters-of-good-shepherd.html
God bless you!
Oh my goodness, commiserations are due.
ReplyDeleteThat's a reminder to check my oil. This has happened to me before, years ago, and I've almost come a cropper again since. I'm paranoid about running out of oil now.
Thank goodness for mobile phones though, remember the days of trudging in one direction or another towards the nearest phone? At least you didn't have to do that.
Miss Mac,
ReplyDeletenext time, just remember to change the oil every 2000miles or about 2 months of use.
I my self put a reminder on my phone (since I often forget to do it also)
May our Lord bless you :)
You have my sympathies, Mac : been there, done it.
ReplyDeleteThe only consolation is you still have your car - the last serious car problem I had was when my car burst into flames in the middle of Wiltshire . . !
Remember to get Fr Tim to bless it once the work has been done; and then remember to keep the oil topped up !
Dear Mac. Many sympathies. Happened to me (twice) and I know how absolutely horrible it is. Never mind. Will keep you (and your car) in my prayers. You've got Lourdes to look forward to and your car will probably be all fixed and shipshape when you come back. In twenty years' time, you won't even think about it.
ReplyDeleteHi Mac. Not much consolation, I know, but I've given you a Sunshine Award. I hope it makes you smile, at least. See my blog for details.
ReplyDeleteBTW, those automatic transmission thangs are a little easier on people who don't get oil changes every 3 thousand miles...though you should change that stuff anyway.... or HAVE it changed...
ReplyDeleteBTW, those automatic transmission thangs are a little easier on people who don't get oil changes every 3 thousand miles...though you should change that stuff anyway.... or HAVE it changed...
ReplyDelete