So I just got this 92 Tracer LTS. It's a Tracer, yes. But, the LTS has the 1.8L Mazda BP which equals more fun. And fun it was all the way to Hickory, NC to a graduation, rolling at 70+ MPH with cruise control and 4/70 air condition (ask later if you don't know). On the way back, however, was a different story. Everything was going smoothly about 40 miles out of Hickory on I-77 when I felt some stumbling of the engine and looked down to see a pegged temperature gauge and check engine light. I shut the car down and moved to the side of the road, but alas it was too late. Boiled oil and likely blown headgasket. Let's hope the headgasket is all it needs.
$357, 120 miles, and some 4 hours later I'm finally home, a mere 5 hours late. Missed a graduation party and have no car to boot. Oh well, try to fix this engine and if it comes down to it maybe it'll be a good excuse to swap in a GTX (turbo) engine (or a KL? Hmmm....). Thanks to All-American Towing from Troutman, NC. They're good guys and $357 is still a reasonable cost for that kind of distance. Once you've been sitting on the side of the interstate for a couple hours in the heat it seems like a fair price to pay to get loaded up and on your way... *sigh*
It's kind of humbling in a way and it also reminds me that cars will break, even stock cars, and when you least expect it, so don't get careless. (Note to self: Start a towing business.)
