Belts are easily replaced. Just loosen your alternator, remove belt, replace, pull the alternator to tigthen the belt and tighten the bolts back down. Same goes for power steering belt if you have that. Just make sure they are snug but overly tight. I'd keep your old belt in the trunk, if not put a new one back there. A worn belt is always better than no belt.
Pantyhose and duct tape. You can fix a blown radiator hose or make an impromptu belt with those two items....(Just to have some fun go down to the local walgreens and buy those two items at the same time when you get up to the girl at the counter just look at her and say "Im having a party want to come...")
You can take a whole trunk full of parts but it doesnt help if you dont have the ability to diagnose and replace them. I picked up on the fact that OG's77 comet asked if a belt was easy to do or have a shop install it. No offence intended but if a guy has to ask that I assume hes not very experienced with car repair. Thats OK. Just means you prepare for a trip differently than others with the confidence to do road side repairs. Have the car checked over at a trustworthy shop. Cooling system,belts etc. Think about getting an Auto club membership. Its handy with these old cars. I fix them for a living and I still have Auto Club. One tow and its paid for itself. Have a safe trip.
I hate to say it but most of the stuff we have posted is what you might be able to find at 3:00 am at a 7-11 or a supermarket to get you to somewhere you can get it fixed properly. And as darren stated earlier " I assume hes not very experienced with car repair." these are all things that he could figure out on his own. If you prepare for everything you wont have any room for the alcohol and stuff. You know a roll of duct tape a potato and some pantyhose take up alot less space then an upper and lower radiator hose and a couple of belts.
Got a good belly laugh out of that one. Thanks! I have heard of the eggs and Pepper also. Seems like I recall the panty hose as well. The potato worked like a charm though. I am thinking very seriously about getting AAA or one of the others just so the kids and wife have some help if they are a ways away when they have trouble. clint
I am a she and yep I am a beginner. I do have AAA but I would like to feel some comfort and know I am somewhat prepared and maybe someone can help or I can figure it out.
You'll be fine. Just don't push the engine too much if you ask me. I, like you am a beginner and I usually take the Mav out on days off for the occasional drive on the highway. My car doesn't seem to have no probs and it's all pretty much stock. Are you doing this trip alone cause if you are then I can see why you would be worried. Make sure to do this trip with some daylight outside as well. If I were you and if you are really worried, take it down to the mechanic and ask them to look it over for you just to make sure everything is ok. But stop worrying. Don't think of the negatives. At least I know I don't knowing I drive a 35 year old car and know nothing of mechanics. If you pass by Yonkers hit me up so I can check out your car.
