Totallyrad

A few days ago I posted a thread about my experience when my lift pump died. Here Today, I had the opportunity, no, the pleasure, of paying that back. I got knocked off early today and since I was going to help at church tomorrow, we're hosting the annual Methodist Minister's convention again, I rode up to see if I could help with any of the set-up. On the way there I noticed a fellow sitting under an overpass and his truck was at a peculiar angle. I passed by and continued to the church. About 30 minutes later I was headed home, all was under control. I again passed the truck and it's driver and when the thought to stop entered my head I couldn't, too much traffic.

I've mentioned before my thoughts on listening to calls placed on my heart and this one was knocking, loud. On to the next exit, about three miles and flip flop back north bound. I pulled up and after a brief talk with the driver I was over the wall and assessing the problem. It seems this young man was south bound in a 3rd gen 1500 when the right rear tire unzipped and sent him fishtailing at 70 mph. Even though everyone managed to get out of his way, nobody stopped to help him remove the seat. (from you know where) So, the RR is shredded, the front is skinned up from a brush with the median wall on the final half round, the bumper is bent in on the LF enough that you can't even straighten the wheels. Just as we're finishing the assessment, a deputy sheriff pulled up. He had been there previously and had tried to get the state's roadside assistance folks to help but they said this guy was too far out. Anyway, I tried to pry the bumper out of the way, no luck. Hey, I've got a demolition saw on the truck today. Owner says why not, it's all got to be replaced anyway. I looked at the deputy and we both giggled, sure, why not. Back over the wall, grab the saw, take out the diamond blade, on with the composite and it's time to get sparky. After removing 4 or 5 inches off the end of the bumper, no clearance issues any more. So now we're rolling, let's change that tire...........right. (Note to self, when installing aftermarket wheels, make sure to carry proper size tool to remove lug nuts on same.)

So.......another challenge. In the toolbox I just happened to have a long handled 1/2" ratchet. That's a handy tool to have, so are deep well sockets. Too bad they were at home.Did I mention that he had sold his factory jack in his yard sale two weeks ago, by mistake. I loaded up my toys at this point and went to retrieve some sockets. When I got back, everything went better. With the proper tools the tire got changed but the bad news was still coming. Would anybody care to guess about the condition of the spare? Ha, not what you think! It had air, it was all but brand new but, it was a Michelin. Yep, sidewall cracks everywhere. I explained that to him and mounted up the may pop.

Not to let the joy of the day end, while we were putting the tools back on my truck, some knucklehead on the over pass above let loose with a beer bottle. Thank goodness we were under the overpass. We exchanged info and he offered to pay for my time. He was bigger and younger than me so I was relieved when he let me refuse the offer. I explained the happenings of Memorial Day weekend and how the man who was helping me "stayed with the call". I was only doing the same, but for different reasons. He asked again if he could do anything for me. Why yes, there is, let's share a prayer. So once again, two grown men stand on the side of the road and pray. I have to tell you all, I have had a wonderful day!!!

Lary Ellis (Top)

Way to go Rick! You da man !

Totallyrad

Thanks boss, it was a good day!

madhat

Good on you, Rick!

rip 112

Awesome Rick! They don't make guys like you anymore, nobody ever wants to lend a helping hand anymore. With so much violence in the air I guess I could see why. I try to help ppl as i see fit.

Totallyrad

Thanks rip, you have to follow your heart. I've learned that every time I answer that call, the next one is more clear than the last.

jbjarko

Way to go Rick!!! That is an act for the young'ens like me to look up to.

Josh

Totallyrad

Thanks Josh.

dieselfuelonly

Thats just too cool man!

ramlovingvet

Good Job And you got to chop a gasser to boot.

Hvytrkmech

Funny how those voices get a hold of our hearts, nice job Rick.



Tim

12valve@heart

Thanks for paying it forward Rick. I hope that he takes the opportunity to pass it on.

I've tried to pay it forward when I feel that I can knowing that it may come back to me when I'm in need.

2007Dually6.7

great story... man gave me the warm fuzzy feeling there at the end.

Chris Taylor

If you don't mind I am going to link to this on a Christian Off Road site. That is a great story.

Totallyrad

Chris, that would be fine, no problem here. Pm me a link to the site if you don't mind, I'd like to look it over.

And thanks to all of you.