I feel your pain!
New Tranny/Clutch in '01 = $2,300.00
New spindles/bearings in '02 = $1,300.00
New ring/pinion (4.56) in '02 = $895.00
New brake system in '01 = $1,100.00
Family members were trying to tell me, better yet, *URGE* me to get rid of my Ford, that it was a "money pit", and I told them "You just don't understand!" I couldn't live a day, driving a Hyndai to work on the 215. All of those beat-up looking folks driving their beat-up buckets - I'm just not going out like that.
When your family members tell you that your FORD needs replacing with something more, "Sensible" just think about those great times in the desert.
I have this inlaw who is all gung-ho over Hybrid, Alternative fuel vehicles. He told me that my pickup is a "money pit" and that I need to think more about the environment. I told him, "Okay, I'll think more about the environment, but when me and my wife want to drive down to Mexico for a week of washboard, rock-lined canyons, and sandy-beach camping, then, where is this Hybrid gonna go?" He couldn't say anything but, "Then, don't go to Mexico!" I rest my case...:redexp: :exp: :exporange