Keep up with the repairs and use quality parts. In the long run this will be one less repair you'll have to make. If you do the work yourself, you'll save a bundle if not you'll need a second job to fund your hobby.

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'83 240D 264k on 100% biodiesel/ 31mpg
83 300D 217K the $800 gem
'82 300D 267K the new WVO project car finished and driving for free
International tractor B275 on B100
Ford 555 backhoe on B100
Sargent 25 ton Rough Terrain crane on B50