This has not been an easy thing to do. For the past 18 months, I have been dealing with finding a steady job. I have been with my current employer since April, and it seems to be working out. About mid October, my van decided to have a major engine malfunction, and started knocking less than 50 miles after I changed the oil. Not only is this my main mode of transport, but it also helps me when I go out to work on cars for other people who cannot afford to take it to a shop. I have been forced to drive my 68 Ford which has not liked the constant use (aka water pump failure, poor fuel mileage, requiring Non-Ethanol fuel which is 50 per gallon more than regular). Now, I am able to do all the work myself, which saves a ton in labor. Unfortunately, it costs nearly $1000 in parts to get the work done. I tried pricing a rebuilt engine, but that is $1500 at the cheapest. Salvage yard engines run $400-$600, but no telling the condition or life left in them. For those in the automotive field, you will know these past that I have to replace:
Crankshaft and bearings
Gaskets for oil pan, valve covers, intake manifold, cylinder heads
rear main seal
timing cover (non-reusable plastic)
timing chain and gear set
water pump (was leaking a little)
engine fan (was cracked)
heater control valve (leaking)
both motor mounts and transmission mount

My loving wife was nice enough to start a fund raiser for me. Every little bit would help, and a signal boost would be appreciated.

https://www.gofundme.com/steelclawfox

I know this is the holidays and money is being spent on gifts and other necessities. All the money is going into repairing my van and nothing else. I already have my bills paid well in advance due to my shop being closed for a week and a half at the end of this month. It would be nice to drive something that has heat again (yes, it gets cold in Florida).

Thank you for taking the time to read this.