On the evening of the 26th, we found an 1998 Eddie Bauer Ford Explorer fully loaded 4WD in great condition for sale for $1100.
When we got there, the battery was deader than dead. We tried a long while to get it to take a charge, but there was no helping that battery.
We could not start it. The person selling it would not invest $100 to get it running for potential sellers to get the maximum value out of it. We could see they had a parking issue at their apartment complex, noted the inspection was a YEAR out of date, and the tags were going to expire in a few days. We figured they were already or would soon be in trouble for the vehicle sitting there. So, Clint took a chance offered $300 (approximate current scrap metal value) which was promptly refused. He didn't want to invest more than that because we did not know the condition of the vehicle beyond appearance. They had admitted they had not started it since "sometime in the winter."
As we were leaving, the person came out and counter offered $500. They and I talked a little, and we came to $450. Clint and I figured if it was not drivable, we would keep it ourselves for parts for our other Explorers making it still a good deal.
Since it is 4WD Clint took out the drivetrain to tow it home. We drove all the way home not knowing if was a drivable vehicle or a parts car.
Yesterday morning, Joshua and I were able to switch out the batteries and get it started! It runs great! There is a little tear in the leather of the center console, but other than that, the inside is in fantastic shape. The outside is too. Clint went over everything, and it needs some regular maintenance which Caleb can handle.
Family teamwork got it registered, titled, and insured yesterday too. We have to get it inspected, and then Caleb can drive his "new" truck to work!
Caleb is one of the hardest working in our family. He often relinquishes "fun" to help others. He is a selfless, quiet, sincere, and generous young man who treats everyone he meets very well. When anyone needs his help, he drops everything he's doing to help them right then. He is patient and thoughtful with his younger sisters often letting them use his computers or desk space. He has lifted our disabled neighbor in and out of the bed, helped in and outside of his house, and hauled away his trash more times than I can count. I could go on and on about how much Caleb gives of himself for the good of those God sends his way.
Clint and I are so thankful God gave Caleb such a fantastic deal on such a very nice truck! He deserves something nice for all he does for others.
