Ready and Able Rambler

At last, I have found a kindred soul and my car a fellow companion, after reading the article by Jack Goulding about the survival, notwithstanding constant and somewhat abusive use, of his “Swede”--a 1975 Volvo with accumulated mileage of about 150,000 (“Our Old Volvo--How Swede It Is,” Aug. 28).

May I respectfully submit that my 1969 Rambler-American has just passed the 179,000-mile mark, has taken my wife and myself on five long-distance motor trips around the U.S.A. and Canada, following its use in my work prior to retirement in 1974 when I averaged between 15,000 and 20,000 miles a year in and around Los Angeles County.

The Rambler has taken us to the Midwest three times, to the Deep South and up the Atlantic Coast and into the Pacific Northwest and the Canadian Rockies of British Columbia and Alberta, each trip averaging between 5,000 and 8,500 miles.

Most everything about the car remains original from its owner on--motor has needed only regular tune-ups (head has never been off), excellent paint finish reflecting a polished surface and clean interior upholstery in good shape. As did Goulding, I have had to replace the clutch assembly three times, this for a vehicle with steering column shift, foot clutch pedal but also with the advantage of an overdrive, which reduces the motor operation revolutions by 30%.

This car is a tribute to its AMC manufacturer, the need for regular and adequate maintenance attentions and sensible driving on the streets, freeways and highways.

I am looking forward to the 200,000 odometer reading and would not hesitate to drive anyplace in the entire country as both the car and we are always ready, willing and able.

FRED R. HOFELD

Los Angeles