What makes a true Auto Enthusiast

"shop-teacher" (shop-teacher)
03/16/2014 at 17:56 • Filed to: In defense of the humble pickup trucks

I'm fairly new around here, new enough that I'm not really sure if anybody will even be able to see this (Update: As it turns out, nobody could, I didn't have authorship on Oppo when I wrote it. I didn't even know what that was). I really enjoy this place. It's far more civil than the forums I used to frequent in my younger days. The discussions are more interesting, and the people in general, seem a lot more intelligent. I have to say though, one thing has become quite clear to me: some of you think I'm some mix of a complete moron or a total wacko. How can that be, when most of you don't know I exist, and nobody has said a single unkind word to me? The answer is this: I am one of those people you see commuting in a full size pickup truck.

Yes my new friends, it is true. On most mornings I can be seen piloting my silver 2006 GMC Sierra crew cab to work, either by myself, or with my baby girl in the back seat. Nothing will be in the bed except an umbrella stroller, a few bungee cords, and a couple of pieces of firewood I keep forgetting to take out of there. The only tools in the truck will be the tape measure I keep in the glove box, and the 4-way lug wrench and Craftsman bottle jack that I keep behind the back seat, because the factory tools are woefully inadequate.

Why do I, somebody who calls myself an auto enthusiast, drive a vehicle with the steering feel and precision of a small yacht? And how can I possibly defend such a ludicrous use of daily driving a 5,200 lb beast of burden, that drinks fuel at the rate of 15 mpg (I once got 19.7 of the highway!)? I will defend my pickup in the same manner that I've seen many Jalops (rightly) defend the minivan. Practicality is where it's at. I am a shop teacher, as you probably figured out from my screen name, but I am also a carpenter. In the summer, if you don't find me working on my house, you'll probably find me working on somebody else's house.

You can haul expensive bags of mulch in your wagon, your SUV, your minivan. I can go to the landscape supply yard, and have them drop a yard of mulch in the bed for $18. You can haul all the 2x4s you need in your wagon. I can haul a helper, all my tools, and all the 2x4s at the same time. My truck may be underutilized on most days, but it does everything I need it to do, when I need it to do it. By the way, don't think for a second that I'm hating on wagons. I LOVE wagons. I want one badly, even though I have no need for one.

I loved all of my past vehicles, even the crappy ones. They all provided me with great memories. I loved my first car, an '89 Oldsmobile Toronado that I bought from my parents. It was glorious pile of late '80's styling, coupled with technology that was too ahead of its time (which is just a nice way to say it was cool looking at the time, and truly horrible). I loved the rusty '93 Subaru Legacy wagon that I bought to teach myself how to drive stick. It was so slow, that passing a car on a two lane blacktop required filing a permit with whatever county you were driving through. A female student of mine once called it my man-purse, which I thought was hilarious. I loved the '89 S-10 that was my hauler for a short time, even though it shed little bits of rust every time I shut the tailgate.

My Sierra certainly has its faults, but I love it. Even though it has all the steering feel of a hibernating polar bear on a morphine IV drip. It handles turns just fine. Bumps, no problem. Bumps AND curves? Just be ready for the rear end to hop to the outside a bit. It's been the noble steed by my side, as I've gone through some of the biggest transitions in life that one can face. It took me to work as I started my new career. It carried my wife to be and I on our first date. A date that lasted over 13 hours, and ended with her falling asleep on her Eggs Over My-Hammy. It drove us away from our wedding with a shattered front bumper cover flapping in the breeze and a smashed right rear quarter panel that I was too broke to fix (it has since been repaired). It has hauled all the material and tools needed to completely gut and remodel the second floor of our house (and all the side jobs it took to pay for it). I was honored to drive my mom home from the hospital in it, shortly before she passed away. I was terrified as I tore through town on the way to hospital, for the birth of our daughter. I was thrilled to drive my wife and baby home in it a few days later (and, of course, still terrified).

I'm not saying that you should all like pickup trucks. They are certainly not the right answer for most people. I'm just saying that perhaps we shouldn't judge each other for what we drive. The answer is not always Miata, but if it is for you, that's fantastic. Yes, most of the time, its just me and not much else in my big thirsty truck. But it does so much for me and my family. That small woman you see driving a giant Suburban by herself, she could be the woman who watches my daughter during the workday. She tows a camper on the weekends, and on weekdays is often hauling five little kids and babies around. The Suburban is the answer for her. There are as many answers, as are types of vehicles out there.

I think that what makes a true auto enthusiast is not what you choose to drive, but rather our ability to find a way to enjoy whatever vehicle life puts you behind the wheel of. Ever pull a hole-shot on a BMW while driving a minibus full of school children? Me neither, but I assure you its a blast. Ever pretend you're a big rig trucker, while moving in a diesel powered International 26' box truck you rented? It's stupid fun, if you haven't, you're missing out. One of the best drives I ever took, was in my Sierra. Four buddies, six coolers, and a pop-up camper driving the back roads to the Indy 500 in air conditioned comfort, all while getting 16.7 mpg (we discovered the camper had a dodgy tire on the way, so I took it WAY easier on the throttle than I normally do).

I humbly submit that if you love your vehicle despite its faults, and you enjoy driving it, then you are indeed an auto enthusiast.

DISCUSSION (100)

jkm7680 > shop-teacher
03/16/2014 at 18:02

It's not what you drive. It's the fact that you are an enthusiast, that's entirely correct. You don't have to have a SUPER modified and nice car to be an enthusiast. It's how you see your image.

Also, when the car gets more attention than the Lady Friend (Am I kidding, am I not kidding. Hmmm, who knows?)

A humble, simple and honest car, like the Sierra that you drive is nice. It's reliable, and it gets the job done.

You are correct, compared to Audizine and Vwvortex nobody has insulted me, or my car and everybody has offered up kind words, and even when I am disagreed with, it's done in a professional manner.

Sn210 > shop-teacher
03/16/2014 at 18:05

You've got a pretty good definition going. I think acceptance is a big part of being a true enthusiast. One shouldn't look down on another's car because its FWD, a hybrid, American, stanced, whatever. It's all about the love of the automobile and the freedom and pride of ownership that goes with it. Also, welcome to Oppo!

Victorious Secret > shop-teacher
03/16/2014 at 18:06

I humbly submit that if you love your vehicle despite its faults, and you enjoy driving it, then you are indeed an auto enthusiast.

You'll find that people forget that on the internet and think their chosen automobile makes them fucking gods compared to everyone else.

jkm7680 > Victorious Secret
03/16/2014 at 18:10

It's nice that on Oppo, That for instance, an enthusiast with a Chevrolet Celebrity can have a friendly conversation with a Mustang Gt owner. Just an example, but honestly in person without them knowing each other, I don't know if that could happen.

190e30-Now with COSWORTH > shop-teacher
03/16/2014 at 18:11

My shop teacher drives the same model GMC, so by process of elimination you must be him.

desertdog5051 > shop-teacher
03/16/2014 at 18:15

You qualify. Now you get the DD introduction.

You'll be sorrrrry.....This is a land where things are not as they seem and before you realize there is no escape, you are trapped ...This, my friends, is the OPPO ZONE.

Welcome.

Skif6996 > shop-teacher
03/16/2014 at 18:18

Sorry if this is a double post but I don't think it wen through the first time because Kinja.
"I think that what makes a true auto enthusiast is not what you choose to drive, but rather our ability to find a way to enjoy whatever vehicle life puts you behind the wheel of."
This. This is the truth.
I would love to be driving a RWD manual something that has 16,000 hp. In the real world, where my driving is limited to groceries with my wife and son in the car or back and forth to work, our Mazda 3 makes a hell of a lot more sense. I love cars, but that doesn't mean I can afford to drive or put up with the hassles of driving, a "fun" car every day.

ADabOfOppo; Gone Plaid (Instructables Can Be Confusable) > shop-teacher
03/16/2014 at 18:19

Nothing wrong with a truck, especially when you actually utilize it frequently.

For many people that is the case.

What I, and I would bet many around here as well, would argue is that there are those who choose to drive trucks because they can, and don't actually ever use them for their hauling capabilities. Those people just prefer to drive an enormous vehicle for a variety of reasons, none of which are justifiable. Many who drive one would be better off in something smaller and nearly as capable, but feel the need to either flaunt their wealth, or compensate for a lack of something.

The full-size truck has its purpose. And, as you have pointed out, there are those who use them often enough to justify their purchase, even though we may not see them being fully utilized and make assumptions about the owner. However, I suspect that many of these owners could be equally as well served in a smaller truck.

This market is also woefully under-served by the major automakers, so it is not entirely these people's fault. When, for instance Ford, leaves the Ranger to languish for 25 years without any substantial updates, but the F150 is constantly improved, it makes no sense to buy the outdated and less capable Ranger when you only really need just slightly more than what it would do.

And while I understand physics, there is zero argument that trucks, and indeed all vehicles, need to be much more fuel efficient. I am very excited to see what kind of numbers the new Colorado/Canyon twins put down. And Ford is going to make a huge impact with the new F150.

Your last sentence is absolutely correct, and is exactly what has kept so many of us coming back, despite what the Great (read idiot) Denton would try to do to disrupt our little corner of the web.

Frank Grimes > Victorious Secret
03/16/2014 at 18:20

I have a miata and a mustang I am a god! Sarcasm detector should be registering about a 10/10 on my calibrations.

Frank Grimes > shop-teacher
03/16/2014 at 18:23

I like your truck! LS motors are dope. Also thanks for sharing all your experiences with it. I think you belong here. I have a miata have a mustang and have had a camaro VW beetle. I think I will have a truck one day because they are so useful and would be great to take on camping trips and moving things and building materials like metal etc.
Noone should be giving you crap about your choice of vehicl sure there are cars that most on here agree are great but we have tons of different vechicles we are passionate about and I think you will find lots of people here who accept you and your choice and would love to talk to you about it.

JR1 > shop-teacher
03/16/2014 at 18:29

You aren't the only one on here who DDs a truck.

Kinja'd!!!

My Chevy S10, they may have no steering feel and they have a rough ride but I love it. Extremely practical, good honest looks, and I love the ride height which gives a great commanding view of the road. You're not an idiot in fact that was one of the best posts I have read on here. Welcome!

Tom McParland > shop-teacher
03/16/2014 at 18:41

Dude named "shop teacher" drives a pickup truck...man, didn't see that one coming. :D

Great post and welcome to Oppo officially!

Brian Silvestro > 190e30-Now with COSWORTH
03/16/2014 at 18:41

Out of all comments today, this one made me laugh the most.

shop-teacher > 190e30-Now with COSWORTH
03/16/2014 at 18:53

Hahaha! Dare I ask who you are?

shop-teacher > Victorious Secret
03/16/2014 at 18:54

True, but they're outnumbered around here it seems.

shop-teacher > Sn210
03/16/2014 at 18:57

Thanks!

puddler > shop-teacher
03/16/2014 at 18:59

that was very well written. judging owners by their vehicles is more of a joke than anything, but stereotypes become stereotypes somehow, right? looks like you take care of your vehicle, there's some automotive enthusiasm.

shop-teacher > Frank Grimes
03/16/2014 at 19:01

Thanks! Nobody has given me crap here. I just felt the need to balance some of the anti-truck sentiment I've seen, with the other side of the coin.

My truck is rocking the smallest of all the LD motors (4.8L), but it gets the job done.

shop-teacher > JR1
03/16/2014 at 19:07

I'm a big fan of S-10's. I've had both an '89 and a '98, they were both extended cab V6's, and peg-leg 2wd's. Great little trucks.

shop-teacher > Tom McParland
03/16/2014 at 19:11

Knock you over with a feather, right? :)

Thanks!

shop-teacher > puddler
03/16/2014 at 19:18

That picture was taken the day I bought it. I'd be lieing if I told you it still looks that good. But it still looks good enough to get me the occasional compliment.

Stupidru > shop-teacher
03/16/2014 at 19:26

Auto enthusiasts come in every shape. They don't necessarily have to know something about everything, but if they know everything about their car, they're a certified gearhead in my book.

190e30-Now with COSWORTH > shop-teacher
03/16/2014 at 19:29

Depends. Is your other car a Saab 9-3 that looks like it's seen some shit?

puddler > shop-teacher
03/16/2014 at 19:30

trucks that get used right wear well. not everyone gets to experience the freedom of being able to load up and go to the extent you can with a truck...unless your car can hook a trailer.

shop-teacher > 190e30-Now with COSWORTH
03/16/2014 at 19:40

Nope. Never owned a Saab.

Makoyouidiot > shop-teacher
03/16/2014 at 19:52

Great post! Your Sierra have the 5.3? I owned two Silverados of similar vintage (00 and 02) and with the 5.3 I tended to average 16-18 mpg, admittedly doing 90% highway driving...good solid trucks.

awe46m3zcp > shop-teacher
03/16/2014 at 20:02

It's so handy to have a truck. I also go get mulch by the yard (every other year). With that said I would be miserable if it was my only vehicle. If I could only have 1 vehicle it would be something practical and fun to drive. I'd borrow a truck or rent one from Home Depot the 2 times a year I actually HAD to have one. I think you owe it to yourself to pick up more side jobs, and buy an affordable fun car on the opposite side of the spectrum.

190e30-Now with COSWORTH > shop-teacher
03/16/2014 at 20:03

Then its not you, unfortunately.

shop-teacher > Makoyouidiot
03/16/2014 at 20:14

Thanks! I had a 2000 Silverado with the 5.3 for a while, but my Sierra has the 4.8. A bit less power, but it gets the job done. I get 14-15 mpg usually, but that's mostly around town. I think the 4.8 and lack of options (it's a base model with only a locking rear end and a towing package added on) are why I got such a good deal. I was out the door for a bit over $21k, brand new with 26 miles on the odo.

mazdaspeed2 > shop-teacher
03/16/2014 at 20:17

I will openly admit I am not a fan of trucks, but I completely agree with everything you said. Also, (I am speaking for myself here, but I assume some people would agree with me) I have a problem with people who think cars are stupid and everybody should have a truck. They typically worship the bro-truck and their idea of a good time is "rolling coal." They are the people I have a problem with, but you, I like. Welcome to Oppo!

avens > shop-teacher
03/16/2014 at 20:28

You said it best: "I loved all of my past vehicles, even the crappy ones".

A car enthusiast is someone that loves cars as a whole and that knows about the hobby as a whole or in a particular side of it. The same is true for pretty much everything.

Though I'd add that an enthusiast-anything should also get into the hobby spending some time and money in it, living it instead of only typing about it. That's not a must to be included in the definition, as the two first aspects are, but quite close.

shop-teacher > ADabOfOppo; Gone Plaid (Instructables Can Be Confusable)
03/16/2014 at 20:31

This is why I like this place so much. Rational discussions :). I waited until I could get back to an actual computer to type all this out.

I would argue that buying a full size truck when you can get by with something smaller is no worse than buying a performance car when all you need is a beige Camry. I also feel that those who buy full size trucks to flaunt something or compensate for something else are by far in the minority. Most people who buy them use them, or they just want them. I want to buy a Camaro SS, even though the kind of driving I do means I will rarely ever use its full capabilities. But, if its what I want, then that shouldn't matter.

I am a fan of small trucks as well, and I eagerly await the upcoming Colorado/Canyon. Believe it or not, the other truck I almost bought instead of the Sierra was a regular cab Colorado (they were unbelievably roomy!). Those were great little trucks, but I'm glad I didn't buy it, because now that I have a kid, I would have to replace it.

As I mentioned, I'm pretty new here. Care to educate me on who the Great Denton is?

shop-teacher > mazdaspeed2
03/16/2014 at 20:41

Thanks! I can't stand the bro-truck pinheads either!

shop-teacher > awe46m3zcp
03/16/2014 at 20:49

I have a fun car too. A '74 Buick Apollo (sister car to the Chevy Nova). It rides like crap and handles like a bag of ball bearings, but I'm saving up for the suspension and steering parts to fix that. I can't wait to autocross it.

shop-teacher > Stupidru
03/16/2014 at 20:58

I can't say I know EVERYTHING about my truck, but I do have the wheel lug torque specs memorized. Does that count? :)

jy15btx > shop-teacher
03/16/2014 at 21:20

Can not agree more. I drive a very non-jalop 2006 Mitsubishi Eclipse GT V6. Is it overweight? Yes. Is it FWD? Yes. Does it turbo awd like a "true eclipse"? No. It does put a smile on my face everytime I drive it. It does have one of the most unique looks this side of a super car. It does get me places fairly quickly and fairly efficient.

More people need to read this!

ADabOfOppo; Gone Plaid (Instructables Can Be Confusable) > shop-teacher
03/16/2014 at 21:22

You make a good point about comparing full-size trucks to performance/muscle cars.

I think GM is going to sell a ton of the club-cab twins for exactly that reason. People have families, but still need a utility vehicle. And since the .1% have all our money, that means people have to use their trucks to commute as well. This is why I hope GM blows people away with crazy mileage on the Turbo-4. Like 25+ city would be jaw dropping for a truck. I hope the diesel does closer to 30 city, and like 40 highway. I really, really want the GMC with the diesel.

Nick Denton own Gawker media, parent company of Jalopnik, and therefore Oppo. He's the genius behind the horrid updates to the layout you may have seen everyone freak out over recently. For all his grand ideas, the executon always falls short. And we have to wade into the pile of shit to keep this place going. Many have left as they have tired of the constant changes, bugs, updates, fixes, and revisions.

But, yes, the ability to have rational discussions, even with differing points of view around here makes it a great place to interact. Do not venture to the front page. They do not share our sense of community, nor do they comprehend sarcasm. Or, most of the English language for that matter.

Your boy, BJR > shop-teacher
03/16/2014 at 21:48

Is that a high trim line 2WD Sierra Crew cab?! If so, you have my points as far as rarity goes.

shop-teacher > Your boy, BJR
03/16/2014 at 22:02

No. Its a base model SL. One of the nice things about GMC, is even the base models have some classy touches.

shop-teacher > ADabOfOppo; Gone Plaid (Instructables Can Be Confusable)
03/16/2014 at 22:07

Thanks for the info.

As nice as a car to commute in would be, its cheaper to spend more on gas, than it is to buy a whole other vehicle.

seoultrain > shop-teacher
03/16/2014 at 22:07

You, sir, have nothing to apologize for. You use your vehicle for its stated purpose, and either your commute isn't long enough to warrant a 2nd vehicle, or you don't have room for one.

After all, you're a shop teacher with a reputation to uphold. You can't exactly pull up in a Miata and expect people to take you seriously on woodworking.

shop-teacher > seoultrain
03/16/2014 at 22:12

Hahaha! Its hard to haul a sheet of plywood in a Miata.

shop-teacher > jy15btx
03/16/2014 at 22:18

I know I'm in the minority, but I think that's the best looking Eclipse.

jy15btx > shop-teacher
03/16/2014 at 22:24

You and I both. Like I said one of the most unique looks for the price.

ADabOfOppo; Gone Plaid (Instructables Can Be Confusable) > shop-teacher
03/16/2014 at 22:28

Yes and no. If you find a good beater, then you'd probably save enough on gas to own two vehicles. The problem is finding a good quality beater anymore.

Cash for clunkers was a terrible idea, and has cost us significantly more than they ever intentioned. The derth of decent, dirt cheap transportation these days is appalling. What were once $300-500 runners on CL are now $1500 because no one else has them. It's a damn shame really.

It may soon get expensive enough that paying for gas isn't he best option. Until then, we can enjoy our utility and performance cars.

mazdaspeed2 > shop-teacher
03/16/2014 at 23:01

Pinheads! I wish I had used that now.

Burrito de EJ25 > shop-teacher
03/16/2014 at 23:09

I humbly submit that if you love your vehicle despite its faults, and you enjoy driving it, then you are indeed an auto enthusiast.

This. This!

Burrito de EJ25 > shop-teacher
03/16/2014 at 23:14

I'd also argue that someone who is greatly passionate about their Camry is just as much an enthusiast as you or I. It's not about the cars we drive. It truly is about the enthusiasm we have for them.

A lot of people think of car enthusiasts and sports car/truck/whatever enthusiasts are one and the same.

seoultrain > shop-teacher
03/17/2014 at 00:10

Kinja'd!!!

Hard, but not impossible.

shop-teacher > ADabOfOppo; Gone Plaid (Instructables Can Be Confusable)
03/17/2014 at 06:54

I actually plan to get a car, so I can keep the stupid commuting miles off the truck, which would let me keep it longer. But it won't save me a nickel, because I just don't drive enough. Even a beater would be a net increase in cost, and my wife shot the beater idea down. She won't let me drive the baby around in one.

I completely agree about cash for clunkers. I was against it then, but I never thought that this many years out, prices would still be so inflated.

shop-teacher > seoultrain
03/17/2014 at 06:58

Well, that's not plywood :D

That doesn't surprise me either. I used to work at a lumberyard. I've seen much worse!

seoultrain > shop-teacher
03/17/2014 at 11:10

Haha yeah, that was the best I could find. I guess people don't tend to document their questionable lumber hauling.

shop-teacher > seoultrain
03/17/2014 at 11:37

The roll bar makes that one not so bad. I can't tell you how badly I wished for a camera when we helped load 2- 12' long 2x12's into a new Mercedes ... Sitting one end on the package tray, and hanging the other end out the sunroof. I can only imagine how much damage was done.

YoungPadwan > shop-teacher
03/17/2014 at 21:33

Welcome! I love your truck, and I am lusting after a GMC sierra.

Spasoje > shop-teacher
03/18/2014 at 20:14

You hit the nail on the head! (sorry)

Being an enthusiast isn't about the type of car you drive, but knowing how to choose the right one.

shop-teacher > Spasoje
03/18/2014 at 21:27

No need to be sorry, the head is where you're supposed to hit the nail! :)

Dream Theater of the Absurd > shop-teacher
03/19/2014 at 13:40

For that, you get a 4x8 Harbor Freight trailer and strap your sheet of plywood onto that. :)

Jim > ADabOfOppo; Gone Plaid (Instructables Can Be Confusable)
03/19/2014 at 13:45

TheVancen- In Pursuit of a Greater Payday and Car Parts > shop-teacher
03/19/2014 at 13:57

My father DD's an '08 with the 5.3, and he loves it. As much as a Ford guy as he is, he still bought it since its such a great truck. We use it for truck things less than you do, but, when we do need it, (hauling my '92 Sable home after it ate and input shaft AND a planetary in the transaxle), its really nice. It rides better that anything else we have and has a way better exhaust note because of the cat-back.

lonestranger > shop-teacher
03/19/2014 at 14:08

Kinja'd!!!

Fellow Sierra daily driver Opponaut here.

"and the 4-way lug wrench and Craftsman bottle jack that I keep behind the back seat, because the factory tools are woefully inadequate."

I hear ya. You might want to check the spare tire hoist as well. I had a lot of fun with mine .

!!! UNKNOWN CONTENT TYPE !!!

Paullubbock > shop-teacher
03/19/2014 at 14:27

To bad it's not an F150, you would have enjoyed it more....

HA!, I had to throw a snarky remark in there just to jar the love fest going on in here. (evil grin)

J Money BS > shop-teacher
03/19/2014 at 14:29

Amen to this response as well as your whole post, shop teach! I, too, use a full sizer as my daily driver (2010 Silverado Extended Cab) and I'm not even a carpenter. But I found myself frequently borrowing friends' trucks and always wishing for more room with all the home improvement projects, family hauling (nothing easier than packing a pickup bed for a summer vacation), etc. So I just did it and have never looked back.

I've been a car enthusiast my whole life and always drove sports sedans (i.e., '99 Contour SVT, '03 Altima SE, '03 Acura TL-S) but I don't really miss them. V8 power provides plenty of punch and you get (demand?) a lot more respect when merging.

Remember dialing "popcorn" for the time? > shop-teacher
03/19/2014 at 14:58

I must disagree, the answer is always Miata (or V-6 Mustang), you just have to find the right question!

For a general duty vehicle that has to carry loads, you nailed it. I have a Ford diesel 4X4 that I occasionally tow a fifth wheel with, but I love driving it (not everyday, 80 mile commute rules that out!).

Having learned to drive in a 1973 Suburban with a 454, I don't judge people on their vehicles. To each his own.

MPA > shop-teacher
03/19/2014 at 15:01

I find enjoyment in driving my 2009 Accent, or any POS I happen to be driving. A friend of mine - also a car nut - has no idea how I'm not shooting myself after driving the Hyundai.

Although it is much harder to drive now that my fun car has gone from a '06 miata to an '06 Corvette. Going from 170hp to 100hp isn't so bad, but going from 400hp to 100hp is a big difference.

h-bomb > shop-teacher
03/19/2014 at 16:18

If you have ever cancelled a date to work on a vehicle, I submit that you are a true auto enthusiast, regardless of the vehicle itself.

tr6rtiger > shop-teacher
03/19/2014 at 16:23

I drive an 08 Sierra ext. cab Z71 for my DD. I utilize the bed a few times a year, hauling my motorcycles, car parts or friends/families crap. Do I need to drive a pickup truck everyday? No. But you should drive what you enjoy, and out of 11 vehicles I have owned 9 have been trucks.

Weekend warriors are a 99 Dakota 318 5spd 4x4, an 87 Ram 360 4spd, and a 69 Valiant Signet 318 4spd. Most people wouldn't find these vehicles particularly amazing or interesting, but it is all about driving what puts a smile on YOUR face!

You can also rest easy knowing that the drivetrain in that truck is easily worth 300k miles.

Frosted > shop-teacher
03/19/2014 at 16:37

Excellent write up, Oppo is one of the few places where you can drive and modify a car to your liking and not be called a moron/fag/idiot/ricer etc etc... I've been looking for a community like this for a long time and never really found one aside from Oppo. Sure most particular vehicle enthusiast sites have good and helpful people but they also have a large group who put you down no matter what you do. A real enthusiast can love and appreciate any car in some way and Oppo seems full of people like that.

I hoon, therefore I am > shop-teacher
03/19/2014 at 16:48

I gotta say, I've seen plenty of Opponauts argue that a family with small children can get by with a Kei car or something else silly like that (admittedly, I used to think I could get by with a smallish coupe, then I had twins). So you get some on here who aren't quite as open-minded as one would like, though not nearly as bad as a lot of forums. The Mazdaspeed forums are by far the worst I've experienced, and I've owned a myriad of cars.

Bro-varian_Horseplay > shop-teacher
03/19/2014 at 17:30

I don't admit this often but I'm a dyed in the wool Oklahoman. I now reside in Dallas and I currently drive an 08 Si sedan.

I spent my driving growth years in trucks. I owned two C1500s. Loved them both. When I joined the Army I enlisted as a heavy truck driver. And that's what I did. Drove some of the biggest and bad ass the military had. I've done more in trucks than I will ever do in a car.

I had to borrow an F150 from a friend for months while we remodeled our new house. I drove the truck every chance I got. Made me realize I am still more comfortable in a truck than any car I've had.

I've grown to love cars again and that been great. But one vehicle is always on my mind. My first. A 1993 Cheyenne short wide. I will never want a vehicle back so badly as I do my 93. I loved my 96 but the 93 had better steering feel and good throttle response.

Damn I miss it. Today I'd easily have an aluminum 5.3L in it or maybe a stroked LQ4. No question.

Truth is that the 88-94 was actually a great steering truck with one of the best gear boxes GM ever built. With a 4-6 drop it was the most sporting truck I can think of. Yes, with 350+ lb-ft and no rear weight, it was a lot of fun.

What I came here to say is that I think trucks are part of the enthusiast family. You just have to be enthusiastic about it. I don't consider myself any less an enthusiast just because I love and use trucks. You shouldn't either.

Maxaxle > Frank Grimes
03/19/2014 at 18:11

*20/10

Singhjr96 > shop-teacher
03/19/2014 at 19:08

I wonder if he was talking about me when he said defend your minivan, because I love my minivan, and have mentioned it many times on here. But I agree with this article fully. I have friends that drive pickup trucks, yet when they see a lowered honda on bbs's they will lose their minds. I also have friends who drive accords, yet they love big tire mud trucks.

shop-teacher > Singhjr96
03/19/2014 at 20:03

I feel like I've seen several people defend minivans. Minivans are excellent at carrying both people and things, while still being reasonably sized and getting reasonable gas mileage. They don't work for me personally, because I'm too big to fit behind the wheel of a minivan comfortably, and I refuse to consider buying anything I'm not physically comfortable in. I just find it hilarious how many people have insisted to me and my wife that we must buy a minivan now that we have a child. My response is always the same, "WTF for? I've got a crew cab pickup truck that's paid off. Why would I buy a $30-40k van that I don't fit in?"

shop-teacher > Dream Theater of the Absurd
03/19/2014 at 20:09

I've got the 4x8 Harbor Freight trailer to go with the truck, I bought it the last time we moved. It only took 17 or 18 trips :) (it was just a cross-town move, only a couple miles). What a hunk of crap that thing is. But now that its purchased and titled and registered, I keep it for the roughly twice a year I use it.

shop-teacher > Bro-varian_Horseplay
03/19/2014 at 20:14

The first truck I ever drove was my dad's '95 K1500 Z71 extended cab short bed. What a great truck! We had a narrow driveway with high bushes on each side, that was a challenge to learn how to back out. Dad tossed me the keys and said, "Figure it out boy". I did, and no scratches. He also used to let me borrow it in high school, during snow storms, when I had to deliver pizza. That was some of the most fun I've ever had driving to this day.

shop-teacher > lonestranger
03/19/2014 at 20:17

I remember that article! I'm not even sure if I had made an account then, or if I was still lurking, but that was a great story.

My truck was still under warranty when my tire hoist failed, and last time I used the replacement, it worked fine. I did pay attention to how you got it down, in case it happens again.

shop-teacher > I hoon, therefore I am
03/19/2014 at 20:20

I'm pretty sure none of those people have ever seen the size of a rear facing car seat (which they now are supposed to stay in until they're 2!). Either that, or they have no legs. Our family cars throughout my childhood were all coupes, my mom refused to drive a 4-door car, because they were ugly. But modern car seats are a real game changer for that.

shop-teacher > YoungPadwan
03/19/2014 at 20:21

Thanks!

shop-teacher > MPA
03/19/2014 at 20:23

Man, life is hard! :)

Yes, of course, I'm jealous.

shop-teacher > Paullubbock
03/19/2014 at 20:27

Haha! I've been blown away by the response. I dig the F-150's too, but in '06 when I bought the Sierra, I wouldn't have touched a Ford truck with a 10' pole. The engines were over-complicated, hard to work on (seriously, you have to take the damn intake manifold off to change the spark plugs?), and under-powered. The torque curve on the ecoboost will get me to consider a Ford when the time comes for a new truck, but that's not anytime soon.

shop-teacher > h-bomb
03/19/2014 at 20:27

What's a date?

Jackstand > seoultrain
03/19/2014 at 20:46

The Miata, its practicality is limited only by your own ingenuity. Also bitch'n fender stripes, part of me wants to do a red set on mine.

MPA > shop-teacher
03/19/2014 at 21:20

Yup - definitely 1st world problems lol.

Singhjr96 > shop-teacher
03/19/2014 at 21:41

Lol. I've never had any problems with fitting in my minivan. It actually is one of the more roomier cars we have. We could go camping in the back of that things. But we've been able to haul literally a dumpsters worth of old work papers(we literally filled an empty dumpster with paper in one trip), all the way too 12 people, to about a hundred cases of soda.

Singhjr96 > Singhjr96
03/19/2014 at 21:42

But if you only have one child, then theres no point in buying one if you have a truck. Now if you had 5 kids, then you need to get one.

Dream Theater of the Absurd > shop-teacher
03/19/2014 at 21:47

After I hauled a few sheets of plywood on mine, I built them into a body that sits on the HF frame and now it serves as my sleeping quarters when I'm at the track. The HF frame isn't the best and for what I did with mine it's a lot heavier than it needs to be, but it is cheap and readily available

Dream Theater of the Absurd > h-bomb
03/19/2014 at 21:52

I can't say I've done that, but I recently took sick time at work so I could work on my wife's car. :)

C25A1guy > ADabOfOppo; Gone Plaid (Instructables Can Be Confusable)
03/19/2014 at 21:54

Yup. I'm very much in the same boat as shop-teacher. In September I picked up a brand new 2014 Silverado Z71 LTZ to replace my 2006 Honda Ridgeline. Will you see me hauling stuff during my commute? Nope. You probably see me, or maybe my 2 year old son along with be. But during working hours since I own my own company and am not at the point to afford a dedicated delivery vehicle, pick-up trucks have served double duty well. There are times when I wished I had a smaller car for my commute (about 45 miles one way), but there's no way I would be able to do so as comfortably.

shop-teacher > Singhjr96
03/19/2014 at 21:55

Normal sized people fit in minivans, but I am not normal sized.

shop-teacher > Dream Theater of the Absurd
03/19/2014 at 22:01

I've done that!

shop-teacher > Singhjr96
03/19/2014 at 22:18

I think if I had 5 kids, I'd go the full size van route. Who am I kidding, if I had 5 kids we'd have to walk everywhere! :)

shop-teacher > Dream Theater of the Absurd
03/19/2014 at 22:24

I've been tempted to build a new frame, but use the same axle & hitch, and then just transfer the I'd plate to the new frame, so I can use the same registration/plates.

Singhjr96 > shop-teacher
03/19/2014 at 22:49

I'm 6 foot so I push the envelope of normal size just a bit. How about you.

shop-teacher > Singhjr96
03/19/2014 at 22:55

Also 6' tall, but the issue for me is my "wide track" ... If you catch my drift. Actually, most cars don't work for me either anymore. The giant center stack of most dashboards/center consoles are in the place that my right knee needs to be. Damn touch screens.

Singhjr96 > shop-teacher
03/19/2014 at 23:29

Lol. I could see how a minivan or a tight recaro or sports seat could be a problem. but yeah, I never would buy a car if its uncomfortable.

Logansteno: Bought a VW? > shop-teacher
03/19/2014 at 23:52

You can definitely be an enthusiast and not drive something that would be considered an enthusiasts vehicle. When I turn 16, I'll be driving a beat up GMC Safari van, doesn't mean I don't enjoy cars and driving. I can just drive my car at 10/10ths and not break and laws.

JoelA237 > shop-teacher
03/20/2014 at 03:57

I too am a die hard enthusiast, but currently drive a 98 honda passport, a fully loaded one on 31" tires.. but a honda passport none the less.. I bought it as a family hauler at first, then it just kind of "fell into" being my work truck.. So far it has taken me far off the beaten path, showed up a wrangler offroad, took second place at the street drags, loosing only to a brand new Impreza sti, brought my 2nd kid home, took out two deer at once without so much as a scuff.. To most people its just another pos suv.. but I have actually gotten to really really like it.

shop-teacher > Singhjr96
03/20/2014 at 07:25

Haha, yep! The seats that most people complain about not having enough side bolster, are usually just right for me. I considered buying an STI once, but 3 seconds in those seats said no.

DRFS Rich > shop-teacher
03/20/2014 at 09:59

Drive what you like, that's fine, but this argument about "yards of mulch in the bed" grows tired for me. The few times a year the average person needs that a pickup can be rented at any local hardware store for around $20/hr.

If you enjoy your truck that's great, but ownership can't honestly be justified by occasional usage of the cargo capacity.

shop-teacher > DRFS Rich
03/20/2014 at 11:23

True, if you're only using the capacity a few instances a year, then a truck is a silly thing to buy. The mulch is just one of the many times a year I use the capacity of my truck. Personally, if I only used it a few times a year, I wouldn't own a truck. But I also think if someone else wants to be silly and own a truck even though they barely use it, who are any of us to judge? Its no sillier than buying a really fast car to commute in, only to race it a few times a year. I approve of both. It sounds like you do to.

voltzvibe > shop-teacher
03/20/2014 at 11:26

Great write up ...because - great respect and admiration for wagons.