Bad news...

[RedEightySix]

Got a call from my dad earlier today when I was off work...He was driving my truck today, when black smoke started pouring out from the hood. He pulled over and popped the hood as he started to see flames.  A person in there yard ran over with some water and helped get the fire out.  I haven't seen pics of it yet, but apparently the motor is toast from the looks of it, paint on the hood is shot too.  Truck was appraised a few years ago with most of the work done to it, so it's covered but I have a feeling I'll finally be parting with it this time with all my recent problems. I'll try to get some pics of it tomorrow when I get into town. I'll keep you guys posted, just waiting to hear back from the insurance company.

[beastie_3]

Oh no....fuel line broke probably.

[big bear]

wow, thats a bummer. im sorry to hear. hope he was ok though.

[DustyRusty]

A long time ago, I had the same thing happen to me with an Oldsmobile.  Mostly just burned up the wiring and scorched the hood real bad.  The car could have been repaired but the owner chose not to.

Give it a couple days and then have a friend help you do a thorough, and objective, analysis of the vehicle.  Maybe it isn't as bad as you imagine.  After the inspection, you can make an informed decision rather than an emotional decision.  I am sure you already know this.  Whatever decision you make will be the right one.

Hope it  works out okay.

Rusty

[choptop]

If its just an underhood fire, I dont see any reason to total it. And engine compartment wiring harness, maybe some engine seals, distributor, hoses, carb and paint, and let er rip. Fire damage always seems to make the damage look worse than it is. Remember, most of the critical stuff under the hood is metal.

[Lt.Del]

yeah, our engines won't get hurt too much w/ a quick fire.  Wires may melt, hoses may need replacing.  Newer vehicles, however, is a completely different story with their aluminum block and magnesium plenums, sensors and plastic everywhere.  I bet it isn't bad.

[zieg85]

Some of the best deals I have ever gotten was buying a truck similar to what you describe.  Of course when I did it on a regular basis I had everything I needed X4 at least in the shed.

[RedEightySix]

Thanks for all the replies, just to let everyone know, my dad was fine. My only issue is that I'm a poor college kid now, and not sure if I can afford to keep the truck. I'll keep you guys posted what the insurance company says about it, good thing was I had it appraised 2 years ago for 12K...And that was before dropping a Monster Transmission 700R4 in it.

[RedEightySix]

Still no word from the insurance company, gave them some more detailed info on the truck...Looks like it's gonna be a total...And as if my week couldn't get any worse, the tranny in my 03 Acura TL took a shoot today too. Rough week for me.

[beastie_3]

dont let the ins co take you for a ride. i was in the same boat with my civic, got more money out of it than KBB said it was worth. did you submit the appraisal when you got it?

[Irish_Alley]

yeah sit on the truck for a month before you let them take it or until you get what you want from it. when i totaled my impala geico just wanted to give me what i owed. i wouldnt take it i let the car sit in my yard for 2 months or so called them up and said you came up with a better price. they gave me about 3k more, then they forgot to pick the car up had to call them back about 2 weeks and remind them. kind of wish i didnt and just kept the parts for something else

[RedEightySix]

Yes I had the appraisal submitted, so they know what it was worth. I won't let them rob me on it either, I'll get what I feel is acceptable for it.