Driving standards

[MrWolf]

6 hours ago, Jol Wilkinson said:

 

Cars are increasingly designed to be made as quickly and efficiently as possible, hence the use of single use and similar fixings. 

 

Exactly, plus the assembly methods are geared for automated production, where sub assemblies of engine, gearbox and front suspension are fitted as a unit from beneath the car. 

 

6 hours ago, Jol Wilkinson said:

 

When I worked for the Opel UK division of General Motors in the 1970s, the American engineers were already talking of the "sealed for life" engine. We didn't really believe it based upon our experience of UK and European products but they were used to large, lazy and relatively inefficient engines.

 

It almost happened, the last small RWD vehicles, Opel Kadett / Vauxhall Chevette from the mid 70s had no gearbox drain plug, only a filler / level plug. Oddly, the products of the GM van plant at Wentzville, Missouri where I worked in 2003 had a lot in common with Bedford vans from the 60s and 70s and demand was still very high.

 

6 hours ago, Jol Wilkinson said:

 

That is how the US motor industry used to operate in the 1950s - 1970s, usually a new or heavily modified body design on a separate chassis. Monocoque bodies rather put an end to that. 

 

That was a good way to keep up with fashions whilst not having to invest millions. Plus improved drivetrains or multiple options could be incorporated. The American industry's attempt at creating "World cars" was a double edged sword in many respects.

 

6 hours ago, Jol Wilkinson said:

 

Increasingly people don't understand the proper use, care and maintenance of products they buy. 

 

Another benefit of the throwaway society that is busy blaming the previous generations for environmental issues.

I can't take those Just stop oil protesters seriously while they sit in the middle of the road swigging water from plastic bottles.

[Sidecar Racer]

9 hours ago, Jol Wilkinson said:

 

Increasingly people don't understand the proper use, care and maintenance of products they buy. 

 

 This series on Youtube fully illustrates that , this is  USA based and shows the 

death traps on the roads over there and a woeful lack of any form of safety checks in

many states as shown here .  https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vehicle_inspection_in_the_United_States