Paranoid about driving

[MERCMAN]

Took the MM out of town yesterday and I found myself worried about driving it. Why you may ask? I Have ALWAYS driven the MM defensively looking both ways at an intersection numerous times, maintaining a safe distance between my car and the vehicle in front of me, etc. My worry is that, through no fault of my own, some jackass will hit me and no bumpers are available. I love this car and if something like that should happen, I just don't know what I would do. The damn car is an obsession and I hate the thought of not having it in OEM condition. Anyone else out there worry about this every time they drive?

Just curious.....

[Raleigh Marauder]

I feel the same way. I don't drive near as aggressively in the Marauder as I do in my Mustang. Like you, I'm worried to death about the bumper covers.

[Embassy]

Anyone else out there worry about this every time they drive?


Absolutley. I joke with the wife that I drive the Marauder much easier and much more carefully than I drive the DD.

[MERCMAN]

Your car is a stunning example. We need an entire state for nothing but Marauders. Funny, I don't have that paranoia when we convoy as I know my brothers are as careful as I am.

[Ms. Denmark]

_____________________

[WhatsUpDOHC]

Oh, yes. I know the feeling.

[L.Mark]

I have that anxiety about most of my cars since they are in the about the same category. Either expensive parts to replace, hard to find or go without. I'm not as bad since I drive mine daily. I figure if I get hit and can't find the bumpers, I'll use a CV or GMQ replacement till I find the correct one. Do you think maybe the aniety gets worsened by the car not being driven as a DD or very often??? Just a thought...

[slickster]

That's Why I drive it once a week and that's only to keep the fluids circulated

[TAKEDOWN]

Took the MM out of town yesterday and I found myself worried about driving it. Why you may ask? I Have ALWAYS driven the MM defensively looking both ways at an intersection numerous times, maintaining a safe distance between my car and the vehicle in front of me, etc. My worry is that, through no fault of my own, some jackass will hit me and no bumpers are available. I love this car and if something like that should happen, I just don't know what I would do. The damn car is an obsession and I hate the thought of not having it in OEM condition. Anyone else out there worry about this every time they drive?

Just curious.....

Yes... a minor fender bender occurred, i was never the same since.

[CWright]

Took the MM out of town yesterday and I found myself worried about driving it. Why you may ask? I Have ALWAYS driven the MM defensively looking both ways at an intersection numerous times, maintaining a safe distance between my car and the vehicle in front of me, etc. My worry is that, through no fault of my own, some jackass will hit me and no bumpers are available. I love this car and if something like that should happen, I just don't know what I would do. The damn car is an obsession and I hate the thought of not having it in OEM condition. Anyone else out there worry about this every time they drive?

Just curious.....


I'm always thinking the same way Dan and it SUX! I do have an extra rear bumper I hope I never have to use. It doesn't ease any of my tensions. My biggest thing is to anticipate the unexpected and always be on the defense like you mentioned! :coolman:

[RF Overlord]

I feel the same way, Dan. I'm much more relaxed in the Slowmobile than I am in The Blackbird.

Honestly, I thought it was just me. In a way, I'm glad others feel the same, even thought it's not a fun feeling.

[TAKEDOWN]

Mine was a daily driver, starting dumping a lot of money in to it, then got hit, got it fixed, dumped more money into it. Realized I had something very valuable especially after certificates came out and bought a daily/CVPI. Daily wasn't good enough and bought my other favorite color now I got two. Had an idiot almost smash the new one now I'm getting paranoid all over again. Maybe if I purchase a dbp I'll feel better. Trying to fight the mod bug this time round too. I just want to keep both forever!!!

[Comin' in Hot]

I am seriously considering putting a CV rear bumper cover on my DD MM, just to save it if my DBP ever gets hit. I have a front bumper cover, so I'm not as worried, I just have to go pick it up.

[ChiTownMaraud3r]

I feel the same way, and barely drive it. I think the car is an obsession more than anything.

[Jake]

Not long ago I felt the same way. So much so I was considering selling the 'Rauder. Then I realized that if I sold it, it would be gone. If I kept it and it got hit I had that much more time to enjoy it. My aggressive driving days are mostly gone, but, at least, I still enjoy the Marauder!


-

[ARodmarauder]

Yeah agree. Even though mine has been a DD since day one I still don't want to drive it unless I have too. Hopefully I can finish my crown vic soon.

[VMARAUDER]

I feel the same way, and barely drive it. I think the car is an obsession more than anything.
Don't use that word ''obsession''...I hear it all the time from my wife.

[gdsqdcr]

I have similar concerns but I will still drive it. Rain or dirt roads is a no-go; but all else is clear driving. I recognize the rarity of the parts and the car, but I did not buy her to sit in a garage.

Anthony

[larryo340]

DD mine on the Long Island Expressway, and I think I'm looking in the rearview mirror more than out the windshield :eek:

[Mebot]

I am seriously considering putting a CV rear bumper cover on my DD MM, just to save it if my DBP ever gets hit. I have a front bumper cover, so I'm not as worried, I just have to go pick it up.







I figure if I get hit and can't find the bumpers, I'll use a CV or GMQ replacement till I find the correct one.

Not terribly bad ideas however if you take off the rear Marauder bumper cover you make baby Jesus cry and a little bit of your Marauder's soul shrivels up and dies.

The covers are our Marauder's identities

sent from a Samsung Galaxy far far away...

[IwantmyMMnow!]

My a-hole puckers up whenever I have to do a hard stop and there's someone behind me. Also, after losing control and doing a 180 on a 5-lane undivided highway in a downpour several months after buying mine, plus driving through lots of heavy downpours on my way to my brother's house (and my kids were in the car) during 4th of July this year and feeling the rear end get squirrely about half a dozen times (while only doing 45-50mph....that's how hard it was raining at times) has me a bit paranoid driving in rain.

I can't imagine what state of mind I would be in if I get in an accident, and I hope I never find out. :depress:

[L.Mark]

Not terribly bad ideas however if you take off the rear Marauder bumper cover you make baby Jesus cry and a little bit of your Marauder's soul shrivels up and dies.

The covers are our Marauder's identities

sent from a Samsung Galaxy far far away...


LMAO.....it would just be for a short time. I'd prolly fill the back of the bumper with so much puddy just so it looked ok till I found one...

[SC Cheesehead]

Yeah, I definitely worry, and drive very defensively (just ask Zack...;)), but I've also adopted a bit of a fatalistic attitude; if it's gonna happen, it's gonna happen...

[Motorhead350]

Trying to understand this paranoia.... can't do it.

[Guittard22]

I all so have a fear of getting in a crash and getting slapped with totaled and never get her fixed back the way she is :/

I am lucky to have a back bumper cover that I will be going to the grave with me lol

[lji372]

I have never left so much room in front of me as I do with this car. Now when braking I find myself checking the rear view mirror. If the guy behind me is a little close I brake plenty early and tap once to get his attention. I've gone through three red lights this summer based on the fact I didn't trust the jerkoffs behind me could stop in time:shake:

[Bruce Wayne]

Yeah I know the feeling, I'm better now that I know I'm not alone, especially after some idiot in a stolen taxi rammed the car behind me at a light and then took off, me and my bumper cover have never been the same.

[Motorhead350]

Crown Vic bumper covers fit.

If something happens AGAIN, a GM or CV bumper cover is going on. Maybe SS inserts if need be.

Not a big deal guys... not to me at least.

[ChiTownMaraud3r]

Yeah but the bumper is one of the few things that make these cars unique. Otherwise just looks like a crown vic with shiny wheels from the back, and a grand marquis with body matched grille and custom headlights form the front.

Twenty years from now, these cars will be super rare, and finding the original parts will be almost non-existent.

[fordmike65]

Ok, my heart is still pumping and I'm a bit on edge. I'm in the 7-11 parking lot about to grab a tall boy to help calm my nerves. Read this thread earlier today and realized I do need to stay a bit more alert than I initially was with this car. I was pretty laxed due to it being a newer car with good brakes and handling compared to my daily driver Fairlane. I've always been on the look out for potential jerks pulling out in front of me. Once I almost t-boned an idiot busting a u-turn in front of me while talking on his damn cellphone! He gives me this doe in headlights look like "where'd you come from??" Anyway, on the way home from my parents just now some freakin assclown darts across me off the side street almost clipping my left front. I screamed all kinds of obscenities to him, wanting to chase him down and beat the crap out of him. If I wouldn't have read this thread, I don't think I would've seen him in time. Then, about 3 blocks from home, some other jackass was about to roll right through a stop and cut in front of me. Again, luckily I saw him and blew the horn and flashed my lights to get his attention. What the hell is wrong with people?!?! God I'm gonna be pissed if some one nails me.

[Mercurykidd]

I agree with everything ABOVE! I drive her two to three times a week; I swear like a lot you, I have one eyeball on the rear view mirror, and the other on the FOOLS in front of me. There have been times that I hit the brakes so fast and hard, I feel my cheeks literally pull the leather up. I don't know what I would do if the front or rear bumper covers got hammered. And what's scarier, my wife has never driven the MM; once in awhile she'll remind me of it, and ask when she can........Oh NO! lol..

[SC Cheesehead]

Wife used to drive the DTR as a DD...:depress:

[boatmangc]

Sorry I bought mine to drive it.
Last year I drive to SSHS from home through hurricane Sandy.
Would I freak of it got hit? Yes.
Would I be crushed if it was totaled, naahh, sad yes, life changed no.

3 words
Collector car insurance!

[clmrt]

My wife refuses to drive it. She knows if she puts a scratch on it, I'll freak. If she scuffs a rim, I'll freak. I've had the car for almost two years and 13,000 miles and she's never even tried it.

That said, I drive it every day when there's no salt on the road, and I'm Mr defensive.

[Blackened300a]

This is why I have spare bumper covers and the car only comes out for shows or events.

[lji372]

Wife drives the black one, the other day she called and asked permission. WOW I guess she knows what the car means to me. I'd rather her be in a safe car than not. No life insurance on her yet :laugh:
I kid I kid
She refuses to drive the silver one and I concur:lol:

[Motorhead350]

Sorry I bought mine to drive it.

This guy ^^^^^^^^^

[clintons4]

Makes me feel like an idiot for selling the rear bumper cover I scored several years back. I paid $100 for it but totally forgot what I sold it for. I also had a front cover I paid $200 for but sold as well. :alone:

[Cobra25]

Took the MM out of town yesterday and I found myself worried about driving it. Why you may ask? I Have ALWAYS driven the MM defensively looking both ways at an intersection numerous times, maintaining a safe distance between my car and the vehicle in front of me, etc. My worry is that, through no fault of my own, some jackass will hit me and no bumpers are available. I love this car and if something like that should happen, I just don't know what I would do. The damn car is an obsession and I hate the thought of not having it in OEM condition. Anyone else out there worry about this every time they drive?

Just curious.....I know how you feel. It drives me nuts sometimes.

[lji372]

This guy ^^^^^^^^^

Dom, drive it a little easier or your getting a new name:

35626

[MERCMAN]

3 words
Collector car insurance!

I am not sure $$$ would make me feel better. Its not about the money, its about having that special car. The MM was the first new car I ever purchased, so it holds a spot in my heart. No amount of cash could replace my MM in my heart.

[lji372]

I am not sure $$$ would make me feel better. Its not about the money, its about having that special car. The MM was the first new car I ever purchased, so it holds a spot in my heart. No amount of cash could replace my MM in my heart.

That right ^^^^^^^there.
I didn't buy mine new but by far my most favorite car. It has also allowed me to meet some pretty cool people around the country. No amount of money can buy that:beer:
:woohoo::woohoo::woohoo:

[Motorhead350]

Dom, drive it a little easier or your getting a new name:

35626

Now thats a good one!

The movie is to be remade soon.

[Mebot]

Now thats a good one!

The movie is to be remade soon.

Johnny 5 hmmm

Maybe should change my avatar....

sent from a Samsung Galaxy far far away...

[Ken]

Took the MM out of town yesterday and I found myself worried about driving it. Why you may ask? I Have ALWAYS driven the MM defensively looking both ways at an intersection numerous times, maintaining a safe distance between my car and the vehicle in front of me, etc. My worry is that, through no fault of my own, some jackass will hit me and no bumpers are available. I love this car and if something like that should happen, I just don't know what I would do. The damn car is an obsession and I hate the thought of not having it in OEM condition. Anyone else out there worry about this every time they drive?

Just curious.....Now you understand why I will no longer do an event convoy... 10 miles under the limit, bumper to bumper, being inconsiderate of the other traffic merging on and off the highway... I had my close call with a gator bouncing off the front of my car by a car cutting through between the one car gap between me and the MM in front of me. I now leave 10-15 minutes later, arrive about the same time with calm nerves and car undamaged. We need to reconsider how we do the convoy before someone does end up in an accident, like splitting into smaller groups of 5-6 cars, go speed limit, and most everyone has gps or can get a print out the directions in case part of the convoy gets stopped by red lights.

JMHO

Off my :soapbox:

[Joe Walsh]

I never really worried too much about my Marauder until some jacknut in a Chevy truck rammed into me while I was sitting at a traffic light a few years back.

:mad2:

Funny (actually....not so funny) thing was, that I always watch people as they approach me from behind, and this guy had clearly started to brake/slow down.
I took my eyes off him and looked down at my gauges....then......BAM!
I still don't know how the F'n A hole slipped from his brake to his gas pedal!

Got my Marauder fixed with one of the last OEM rear bumper covers in Ford's inventory.
I didn't think to try and buy the damaged cover back from the body shop.

Now I drive the Marauder with my head on a 'Linda Blair Exorcist' swivel.

I drive the same way in the Cobra....lots of idiots racing up, pulling along side, switching lanes, and generally driving like morons....:shake:

[fordmike65]

Now I drive the Marauder with my head on a 'Linda Blair Exorcist' swivel.

Love this!

[Ozark Marauder]

Sorry I bought mine to drive it.
Last year I drive to SSHS from home through hurricane Sandy.
Would I freak of it got hit? Yes.
Would I be crushed if it was totaled, naahh, sad yes, life changed no.

3 words
Collector car insurance!


This guy ^^^^^^^^^


=CnxiRt4qeM4=


No paranoia.......Just Drive


OZ

[boatmangc]

Now you understand why I will no longer do an event convoy... 10 miles under the limit, bumper to bumper, being inconsiderate of the other traffic merging on and off the highway... I had my close call with a gator bouncing off the front of my car by a car cutting through between the one car gap between me and the MM in front of me. I now leave 10-15 minutes later, arrive about the same time with calm nerves and car undamaged. We need to reconsider how we do the convoy before someone does end up in an accident, like splitting into smaller groups of 5-6 cars, go speed limit, and most everyone has gps or can get a print out the directions in case part of the convoy gets stopped by red lights.

JMHO

Off my :soapbox:

Vote #1 convoy speed 85MPH!!

[gdsqdcr]

Crown Vic bumper covers fit.

If something happens AGAIN, a GM or CV bumper cover is going on. Maybe SS inserts if need be.

Not a big deal guys... not to me at least.

Some of us actually care about this car. Some even go so far as to want to keep it original looking, as the looks are what attracts us to the car. I know for me, it is the 'style' a d 'attitude' this car conveys on be road that attracts me to it. If I wanted a fast car, I could buy a CSTV wagon ... But it does not give off the arrora as the Marauder.

At the same time, crap happens, and I recognize that. If something were to happen to the car, I will make every effort to get the car put back together with OEM parts. I will not put a CV bumper on it, that would change the look and feel of the car.

You need to understand, some of us care about our cars beyond beating the snot out of them. Some of us worked hard for what we have are going to make every effort to maintain it so after 10 years, it still turns heads. As one guy said at my local car show night, "nice old mustangs and camaros are a dime a dozen, but a Marauder is not something you see every day".

Anthony

[fordmike65]

What this guy said^^^^^^:beer:

[babbage]

If anyone is worried about getting rear ended I'd suggest this:

http://www.flashingbrakelights.com/

I have something similar, can't remember the company. Got the Fed-Sig 30 LED black police CHMSL, when I push the brakes down the light blinks 3 times over 3 seconds and then stays on. This is much harder for following motorists to miss.

Most times I drive my Marauder hard & fast, blasting past all of the sheep around me. Edit: I also take extra good care of the MM changing fluids, etc on severe service schedule (early)

[SC Cheesehead]

Vote #1 convoy speed 85MPH!!

85 mph???


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2Byz7eU8jF0


;) ---------------> :D

[L.Mark]

That right ^^^^^^^there.
I didn't buy mine new but by far my most favorite car. It has also allowed me to meet some pretty cool people around the country. No amount of money can buy that:beer:
:woohoo::woohoo::woohoo:


That right ^^^^^^^there.
I didn't buy mine new but by far my most favorite car. It has also allowed me to meet some pretty cool people around the country. No amount of money can buy that:beer:

Well said. Mine is the newest car I've ever wanted to own. She's in the same category as my '79 Mark V. The worst car I love to drive is my Dad's 68 Cougar. You talk about a magnet for idiots. It's like they see the car and know your not going to let anything happen while they don't care about their box of vehicle that they can go to any cardboard store and get another one just like it.

[RF Overlord]

"nice old mustangs and camaros are a dime a dozen, but a Marauder is not something you see every day".Testify, brother.

[jsignorelli]

Why not just hang a large sign in your back window:
If you hit me..it with be a highway fatality.. for you!

[fastblackmerc]

If anyone is worried about getting rear ended I'd suggest this:

http://www.flashingbrakelights.com/

I have something similar, can't remember the company. Got the Fed-Sig 30 LED black police CHMSL, when I push the brakes down the light blinks 3 times over 3 seconds and then stays on. This is much harder for following motorists to miss.

Most times I drive my Marauder hard & fast, blasting past all of the sheep around me. Edit: I also take extra good care of the MM changing fluids, etc on severe service schedule (early)

I add LEDs and a blinker to all the CHMSLs I modify. Very easy to install.

[WhatsUpDOHC]

Why not just hang a large sign in your back window:
If you hit me..it with be a highway fatality.. for you!

I like^.

Jim, you always cut to the chase.

[Go2GuyFL]

Dan ... I have some extra sets ofreflective red lettering from Bob White Decals to fill your embossed bumper. If you'd like to buy one from me, I'll bring to MV11.

[8UWITH6]

I drive one of the rarest Marauders on the planet every day. You cant enjoy it if you worry about it ALL the time. Dont get me twisted. I am like a lot of you and park my car accordingly in parking lots, etc. But driving it you just have to have your head right and be defensive. You cannot control the other idiots on the road so why try and control something you cant? Drive your cars. My poor Buick sits in the garage for many reasons. But the Marauder puts a smile on my face EVERY DAY. If someone crashes into me so be it. (They may not survive through) ;)

[L.Mark]

There will always be Marauders to be had. If you can get a Tucker Torpedo to this day, them I'd say they will be there to be had. Of course you may have to spend what you would on a Tucker, but it's all in what you want. With that said I'll go back and cover up my Mark V so no rain gets to it...;)

[RF Overlord]

Yeah, but nobody ever did THIS to a Tucker Torpedo:

http://carphotos.cardomain.com/ride_images/4/516/3209/38789104013_large.jpg

[Pat]

WOW, that's a sharp looking pair of bookends.

Got dinged in the rear fender tis past week, going to the body shop soon. I try to be cautious, but people don't care if they dent your car, no one sees them. Insurance deductible ($500.00) is too high to cover this type of damage.

[fireandice9008]

The Marauder had a strange effect as soon as I drove it, I became the world's most cautious driver almost instantly, and in it I still am. That being said, I bought the car to enjoy, and I driving it is part of that. Some people are content with sitting in their garage looking at it, and that's cool, whatever works for them.

Sure, it's a rare car, but it's just that... a car. Nevermind the fact that I have plans for a warehouse full of Marauder parts :lol:

[Ken]

WOW, that's a sharp looking pair of bookends.

Got dinged in the rear fender tis past week, going to the body shop soon. I try to be cautious, but people don't care if they dent your car, no one sees them. Insurance deductible ($500.00) is too high to cover this type of damage. Do you have a paintless ding repair shop around? May be worth checking out or check with MartyO if he uses one near his shop. I've had many dings removed from my cars. Very reasonable compared to the alternative. I just had a few removed from my beater that I'm bringing to MVXI.

See you in Atlanta

[Go2GuyFL]

Dan ... I'll drive it for you!

[SC Cheesehead]

Yeah, but nobody ever did THIS to a Tucker Torpedo:



How can you argue with that?.... :dunno:

[L.Mark]

Yeah, but nobody ever did THIS to a Tucker Torpedo:

http://carphotos.cardomain.com/ride_images/4/516/3209/38789104013_large.jpg

And lets hope they never do!!!!:(

[sflrainmaker01]

I love driving my Marauder!:D It is definitely one of the best cars I have ever owned! I usually don't worry about people bumping into me right now. But, as soon as I get my bumpers installed, I am sure I will be a bit
more concerned.:rolleyes: The only thing that concerns me now is keeping the mileage down as much as possible. Not trying to be part of the 100k club anytime soon! ;)
For ya'll that live in the city, man, that is tough! I recently drove my car thru Tampa and that was really nerve racking.:eek: I ended up car pooling with other co-workers the rest of the time and left the car in covered parking for the rest of the trip. Luckily, SW Florida is not big city like.:up: I sure don't miss the big city life either.;)

Happy & Safe Marauderin'!

[Motorhead350]

Long post coming later.

[Mebot]

Long post coming later.

Now

sent from a Samsung Galaxy far far away...

[Motorhead350]

Now

sent from a Samsung Galaxy far far away...

I do not like typing out long thoughts on my phone.

[Mebot]

Get a speak n spell

sent from a Samsung Galaxy far far away...

[Motorhead350]

I mumble a lot.

[RF Overlord]

I've noticed a lot of rock stars do that. Robert Plant is unintelligible.

[Motorhead350]

Alright here we go...

Dan, if you let the paranoia of an accident take away your Marauder time then you have let "them" get to you. The truth is you do not know how long your car will last or how long you will live. You have a nice Marauder and to my knowledge it still has a warranty. If someone hits you, it better you get hit now than saving it for later. We now have bumper covers pop up here and there. Waiting to drive it when less bumpers are around will only put yourself at a disadvantage.

There are two ways to get over your paranoia:

1. Quit thinking "what if?"

2. Stock up on a bumper or two incase, then you will have nothing to worry about.

How many good years do cars have? Well I do not know, but I know yours is still PLENTY road worthy and it would be a waste to not drive it over a fiberglass cosmetic part. Even if something happened and you were stuck with a CV bumper cover, so what? As long as it drives and you cannot see the imperfection while in the drivers seat who cars?

Do what you want, it's your car, but I think this is a very silly thing to be paranoia about.

BTW I have been rear ended 4 times in the past two years. My bumper might be missing paint, but it's still solid.

[Motorhead350]

I will leave this here..

[Motorhead350]

And this....

;)

[1Marauder]

YES! Youare not alone... Some yawho was tailgating me the other day... and I almost got out at the next light.

I saw some of the relector letters to insert into bumper Black (really dark grey) during day, but reflect bright white with any light on them. I bougt a set--not because I want to advertise in any way--I just figured the bright reflector letters might help.

I am on the prowl for a rear bumper (like all of us), but this will not ease the concern. Glad most of us feel the same way.