Car Talk #2408: Safari Mishaps and Dating Advice

Car Talk Mailbag: The Mystery of 'Charter'

• ✉️ A listener named Joe from Redwood City, California, proposes that 'Charter' is the most common town name in the US, citing Greyhound and Trailways bus routes as evidence.
• 🧐 He humorously speculates that 'Charter' might be a secret government town, possibly for people in witness protection, due to ticket sellers' evasiveness.

Safari Breakdown and Swahili Survival

• 🦁 Newton from Venice, California, recounts a breakdown in his 1975/76 Land Rover in Kenya at night.
• 💡 The car stalled at the bottom of a hill, and the mechanic's temporary fix involved covering the carburetor throat to adjust the air-fuel mixture.
• ⚠️ Newton was warned by his driver with "Hana Simba, Simba" (meaning "No lions, stay in the car"), adding to the night's drama.
• 🛠️ The mechanic used minimal tools, including rubber bands and his hand, to keep the vehicle running, eventually removing the hood to improve airflow.

Volkswagen Bus Woes and Ball Joint Blunders

• 🔧 Chris from East Boston shares a problem with her 1974 Volkswagen bus after replacing ball joints and a tie rod.
• 💥 The rubber seals on the new parts were ripped, likely due to improper installation by the mechanic.
• 💸 She is hesitant to pay another $400 for repairs and seeks advice on how to fix or temporarily manage the issue.
• 💡 The hosts suggest finding a specialist mechanic, like the Petroilio brothers in Somerville, who might have the correct tools and parts for a more affordable repair (estimated $50-$100).

Dating Advice: Subaru vs. Land Rover

• 🚗 Justin from outside Washington D.C. seeks advice on a car to attract women, as his Subaru Legacy wagon is deemed unsuitable by his brother.
• 🎯 He's looking for an