Car Woes Part 2

4. My backup car ( aka the good car that Bryan wants used only for church or family outings) : has been progressively sluggish to start and had a slight squeal, both increased in the negative temperatures and as we used it more dto save other vehicles. Bryan discovered a pulley on the master belt was fused and barely turning which caused the belt to slip and thus squeal, replaced it, revealing a second one that wasn't turning freely, replaced it, only to find they both were caused by a failing alternator. Sigh--cue $185, but so very thankful Bryan can do this work himself, it didn't leave us stranded, and was fixed in one (long ) day.

Back to #2: bought fuel line freeze up treatment, waited for a warm (er ) day, used starter fluid, still won't run more than 30 seconds. This is not the kind of job Bryan can do now, especially in the cold, without a lift or even a garage, and when he's working overtime every week. Priced it at $600 + at professional shops and that's IF the good parts are not too rusty to work with--on a 20-year-old car. After seeking around, found a reputable friend to do it for less. But it's still a huge hit to the budget especially with the other car issues and he can only do it in his spare time because of course he has a regular job too. We're very grateful Melissa had a free AAA tow, but it's now been there almost two whole weeks. We paid for parts (fuel pump 😞) and are still putting the miles on the good car in the meantime. Hopefully with the overtime, the budget will recover soon!