[VAC] Useable or Museum piece?

[Patrick Ewing <pre52@xxxxxxx>]

The value of something rests in the eye of the beholder or the user.

I've restored several "vintage" tractors and, ........................ several
"vintage" Airstreams. Personally I can't afford to store "museum pieces" and not
use them. My tractors I use, ................ even the 1948 Allis Chalmers Model
"G" with a front loader  that made a several page long picture story in an
international magazine several years back. I took many pictures of it when it was
all fresh & pretty .................... then I've used it on the acreage parcels
doing various odd jobs as they come up. Since I grew up with it on the farm 3/4
of the fun is in using it. It sure does bring back memories!! I don't "abuse" it
as I'm careful ............... but it is "used."

Seven or eight years ago I purchased my 1961 Bambi. It was 100% original and in
pretty good shape as far as the floor & body goes. Since I planned on "using" it
heavily over a long period I made it into what I'd call a "working" restoration,
........... a "street rod" if you will. I didn't plan on just looking at it,
..................... I planned on using it .................. so I installed all
new appliances, (neatly of coarse) ............... including a hidden gas leak
detector. Safety & usability are primary concerns to me. At this time I even have
new OPD valved propane tanks. I have since used this cute little unit heavily
over a period of years with great satisfaction and have had many compliments
about it's condition both in & out. (No, it's not perfect ............ I use it.)

My only regret is that I should have used the old water heater cover instead of
using the new one. Oh well, .............. it's years too late now.

Now there IS a place for a true "museum piece" ................. and I feel that
it would be nice to see the 100% original units saved as such ................
but to carry this thought to the fullest I feel they should be preserved in a
climate controlled garage or museum if you will.

I have found that life isn't "perfect" .     (:

Pat Ewing
VAC Treasurer
1947 23ft. Liner
1961 16ft. Bambi
1972 31ft. Sovereign Int'l
(Plus other misc. old stuff that's used.)