by Art Moran

Created on: July 08, 2008

Typically, we all realize the astronomical costs of fuel is calibrated largely impart by the reliance of consumer demand. Naturally, we have the privilege, and the right to choose what we drive, how we drive, even when, and where we drive... to a degree. But none the less, if we choose to drive, we're all paying closer attention to the costs associated fueling up at the pumps these days.

In truth, the rising fuel costs almost feels like a punishment of sort, and despite our ability to alter many of the facets involving our personal consumption rates, we are all but prisoners, enslaved to pay whatever price the "Big Oil" companies decide to charge us.

There are alternatives to maximize our fuel economy to fit nearly any budget. Obviously, we can downsize from the once deemed "terrorist vehicles" or SUV's, which get poor fuel mileage to something more economical in compact 4 or 6 cylinder engine.

Then there's the basics to maintaining any utilizing the efficiency of any size vehicle, such as, the way we drive, tire pressure, oil change, tune ups, etc... Which clearly maximizes the longevity, and fuel efficiency of any vehicle.

As a victim to the high fuel prices, and the unstable economy, I recently faced an uphill struggle trying to survive in the construction industry. Naturally, as a self-employed subcontractor for nearly 18 years, I've dealt with owning large 1 ton trucks, pulled trailers, and even owned several pieces of heavy equipment. None of which were cheap to insure, let alone deal with the huge fuel spikes over the past 3 years.

After growing wearisome of trying to uphold the financial responsibilities, while the commercial and residential market began to disintegrate due to increasing fuel costs, I recently surrendered the majority of my equipment, trailers, and trucks. Unable to outlast the ever increasing fuel costs, and decrease in new construction of buildings and houses, I've recently changed gears entirely.

Fortunately, while owning and operating several vehicles and equipment, I learned several aspects of auto mechanics, and avoided mechanic shops for years, refusing to pay their high prices for labor and parts. Since February 08', a close personal friend of mine, and myself have been providing mobile mechanic services via "word of mouth" to a growing cliental, and have made an honest, and decent living doing so.

On July 1st, while traveling down 441 in Orlando, Florida we saw a gentleman with his hood up, who appeared broken down. We made a U-turn,

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