#Western Star Truck Parts

[bayshoretruckcenter]

Commercial Truck Parts & Heavy Duty Components in Delaware

Keep your fleet running strong with premium commercial truck parts from Bayshore Truck Center. Since 1976, we've been Delaware's trusted source for authorized heavy-duty components from top brands like Western Star, Freightliner®, Volvo®, Mack®, and Isuzu®. Explore our extensive inventory for the parts you need, when you need them!

[trashmouth-richie]

𝐥𝐨𝐯𝐞’𝐬 𝐧𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐫 𝐦𝐞𝐚𝐧𝐭 𝐦𝐮𝐜𝐡 𝐭𝐨 𝐦𝐞 :: part 1

꧁ eddie x female reader :: part 2 here

a multi chapter mini series— based on thoroughfare by ethel cain

listen here (apple music) + here (spotify)

summary: jumping into his truck at seventeen, eddie takes a journey in hopes to find love. years pass with no such luck, along the way he stumbles across you, a timid drifter who reluctantly agrees to join him, heading west. you’ve never trusted men, but something in those kind, deep colored coffee eyes stirs up a feeling you’ve never felt before. strangers to lovers trope, one bed trope.

triggers: 18+ smut

author’s note: no upside down, eddie was raised by his mom and dad in florida and they were in love.

The wet shell of a sunflower seed stuck to the tip of your finger. Slicked with salted spit and the tart bite of cherry chapstick, you hung your hand out of the passenger window, waiting for the western wind to blow the husk from your finger.

His thumb rubs against the rough edges of the flint wheel of his zippo, the sweet tang of tobacco invading your nose as the flame sparks leaving a burning cherry on the white paper. A slight chap to his lips from too much sun yesterday at the motel pool in BullHead City, you had supposed. Still, you couldn’t tear your eyes away from him. The only time you could was when his eyes caught yours, daring you to look away.

The way he stared at you with a smirk twisted on his mouth took every bit of breath from your lungs. Holding your gaze in a cozy embrace with the deep warmth of his russet colored eyes until you finally forced yours to break away and look out the window instead. Bottom lip bit between your lips as a growing heat travels over the apples of your cheeks.

If you would have looked back at him you’d have noticed the way he licked his lips as he watched you sigh as if you hadn’t been breathing. Snapping another sunflower seed between your teeth before putting them on the crest of your lips to put them out of the window— he had your movements memorized. Each more tantalizing than the next.

Neither of you were able to deny the tension between you lately, letting it build and fester, aching for relief in the form of pleasure.

The last eight weeks had started to wear heavy on your chest, and you found yourself daydreaming about the beginning of this adventure, like a record on an endless spin to your favorite song.

Not a single radio station would come in wherever the hell it was in Texas he was right now. With every crank of the tuning dial, only the agonizing noise of static strained through the speakers to keep him company as he drove along this highway that never seemed to end.

He cursed himself for not buying a map at the gas station he filled the truck up at this morning. His gut instinct usually guided him on which roads to take, and today was no different. Only today felt like he was pulled by something else, something deeper within himself.

The sky was a mix of cyan and cotton clouds, already hot for May, he was just about to give up on the radio before he popped over a hill and an oldies station came in clear as could be. And something else came into view, plenty far away yet.

Hot wind whipped at your shirt, providing next to nothing for comfort as you trudged along the broken asphalt. You now understood why this place was called the Lone Star State, because you haven’t seen a damn soul in miles. For today, you didn’t mind the loneliness. Leaving home, years ago, you didn’t have a destination in mind, only the knowledge that you needed to get the hell out.

Whatever highway you were on looked to be deserted. As if the state built a multi-laned monstrosity elsewhere and gave up on this slow, lonely stretch, leaving it to the elements. Prairie grass poked through the splintered road, tumbleweeds swayed in the ditches, collecting and tangling as one like a tawny bundle of barbed wire.

Looking behind you, a vehicle showed in the distance like a wavy mirage in the desert. You had half a thought to stick your thumb out and catch a ride to the nearest bus station, but when the vehicle got closer your conscience took over, and anxiety thumped in your chest.

Please don’t stop, please please.

The engine hummed to a lower gear, and you automatically put a hand on the pistol at your waistband. Moving further over to the side of the road where whoever was driving could see that you weren’t interested in their good deed, you kept your head down and kept walking.

Tires slowed and you went into a small panic, wishing you had something sharp to hold between your fingers, but the barren highway offered no such vice.

You heard faint music as the vehicle got closer, crawling almost to a stop as you quickened your steps hoping they would just keep going and leave you be.

“Pretty hot out today… need a lift?”

The voice felt like velvet on your skin, a warmth you’d never known. Endearingly charming, no southern twang like someone from Texas would have. You ignored him, letting the crunch of gravel on your worn boots answer instead.

You had never been given the luxury to trust someone, and you’d be damned if you were gonna start today with some stranger on the side of the road. Heart rate kicking up, you all but bolted to avoid him.

“Baby don’t run, I’ll take you anywhere,” his drawl wrapped around you like a vice, soft and pillowy, and finally your curiosity got the better of you, as you came to a halt. You wanted to look this asshole in the eyes and flash him the pistol you kept, maybe fire a warning shot over the hood of his truck so he’d get the message. That no, in fact you did not need a ride, not from him.

Stopping so his passenger window lined up with you in the center you eyed the only other beating heart on the side of the road.

His hair was past his shoulders, brown and wavy, more than likely frizzy in high humidity. Eyes that were shaped like Bambi’s colored like a bottomless cup of coffee without creamer. His nose sat with a fading sunburn painting along his cheeks, each dwelling a poked dimple in the center. And you swore the key to Heaven was buried in his smile.

When he spoke it was clear that his intentions weren’t to cause you any harm. Minutes ticked by as he waited for your answer.

“Hey, do you wanna see the West with me?”

It was a simple question asked from the quirked mouth of a guy you’d never met before, you would have remembered those eyes in any setting. He leaned an elbow out his window as he threw the truck in park, twisting in his seat to face you a little more. A cigarette dangling from his large hand.

The butter colored sun shone against his caramel curls like a breakfast roll full of sticky sugar, the same light changing his eyes into a whiskey auburn.

He was a complete stranger, but what was even stranger was your one word answer that spread that million dollar grin further onto his face than you thought humanly possible.

You moved your hand from that handle of the gun in your tattered jeans, bearing more holes than actual threads of denim. It was meant for situations just like this, and you had nabbed it from your dad right before you walked out the front door for the very last time.

Instinct told you to run, but something in those dark eyes brought you a wave of calm, whispering out as if you’d known him for years. Your boots had already blistered your heels from walking this far, so what the hell?

Pressing a thumb into the release of the door handle, you swung yourself and your knitted bag into the moth-bitten navajo rug that covered the seat.

His smile didn’t fade, never so much as creased into a frown as he waited for you to get situated. Before he put his truck into drive he explained where he was going.

He was making the grand gesture of looking for love like the kind he grew up watching with his own mom and dad. Explaining that love like that was out there waiting for him, and he was determined to find it, no matter the distance.

Suspicion jumped to your brow, and you tried to stifle the scowl on your lip. “What?” he chirped, a little twist to his lips, “don’t believe in stuff like that?”

This bastard clearly didn’t know heartache the way you were practically related to it. You sigh lazily before looking over at him. Trying not to break his dreams before he even had the chance to realize what a waste of time it was, you simply murmur, “honey, love’s never meant much to me, but I’ll come with you if you’re sure that’s what you need.”

After years of living and growing without being loved, it had become almost useless, something heard in songs or read in books, surely it wasn’t real. But hell, you’d humor this man whose smile danced like a western sunset against a salty ocean breeze, what was the worst that could happen?

A large calloused hand reached across the cab of the truck, and you shook it with a small grin as his voice rubbed like silk across your soul, “I’m Eddie.”

And so it began, the journey to find a love daring to be something greater than anything he’d ever known, hell bent and determined it was out there, wherever that may be.

He had asked about your life. Never pushing when your answers were too short, or ended the conversation entirely. Letting you have your space, he built a trust between the two of you that you weren’t sure about at first.

The roads were desolate, and you couldn’t imagine walking along them alone. You thanked whoever cared that your thoroughfare crossed into his, almost as if destiny had placed you there. Knowing you needed a friend after leaving the only thing you’d ever known and not having a single soul to rely on.

But as time went by, you realized just how much you could rely on him.

That first day, he drove until the windshield bled to ink. Stars dotted across the sky once the sun went to rest, and he encouraged you to follow suit, pulling a hooded sweatshirt from behind his seat and tossing it towards you. Your hesitation told him all he needed to know, that the uncertainty of him was rooted deep. Too deep for you to let your guard down around him.

That pearl handle poked out from your hip and his kind eyes met the scared look in yours. He rubs his lips together before he speaks calmly, “you uhm,” he looks over at you to show how serious this was to him, even if you couldn’t see it in the dark, “you don’t have to worry about using that with me… I’m not that kind of guy.”

His innocence spoke through his eyes in words he hadn’t said, showing you that he wasn’t lying, that you could trust him. You took a deep breath, wondering if you were insane for feeling comfortable with a guy you just met, but it wasn’t long before you whisper, “okay.”

When you snuck a peek over at him, his face was lit by the dim lights of the dash, a smirk nestled on his lips, cheeks welled with the deepest dimples you’d ever seen, and your shoulders eased for the first time since hopping in.

Neither of you spoke for the rest of the night. Your head resting on the window, his sweatshirt rolled under your neck as you fell into a sleep so tender and warm you felt like a baby being lulled to bed as he sang along to the radio.

The heat from the window warmed your cheek when you woke, leaving a less than glamourous mark. Letting out an embarrassingly long yawn, you stretch your arms above your head, feeling your back crack into submission.

“Shit, ‘m sorry, how long did I sleep?” you ask, covering your mouth again from another yawn.

Eddie smiled tiredly, his hair was wrapped into a bun at the base of his neck, sunglasses topping his nose, pushing up from his cheeks as he grins, “don’t apologize for sleeping when you’re tired,” he said, shrugging, “besides, you probably would’ve woken up if I crashed.”

A chuckle hits your dry throat and you cough, “where are we?”

“Still in Texas believe it or not,” he groans, turning it into a long yawn, holding a hand to his mouth, swallowing a bit, “I hoped we could’ve made it to New Mexico before I pulled over but I’m starting to think that ain’t gonna happen.”

You figured he would have stopped to sleep at some point in the night, even if it was just for a few hours. Guilt throttled you at the thought of him staying up while you were asleep. “I can drive while you take a nap.”

“Nah,” he says with a lazy smile, looking over at you, “not that I care if you drive my truck or not, I just think we could both use some decent sleep, watch a little tv, eat, plus… I need a shower.”

Taking a whore’s bath in the gas station sinks had kept you clean, but you almost cried outright at the thought of water, cold or hot you couldn’t care less, running down the length of your body. But the lack of money burning in your pocket stopped that dream in its tracks.

You had a couple hundred bucks left after selling off your car before leaving home. The cost efficient option would be to drive while he slept. “It’s really not a big deal, I promise I’m a good driver.”

The charm you tried to emanate when pulling out your license to show him that you indeed weren’t lying, fell flat as Eddie waved you off, “deodorant only lasts so long before we’ll have to ride with our heads outta the window.”

He laughs in your place as you stare out of the windshield, mind racing over the trouble of being able to afford a motel room.

“C’mon,” he smirks, that same lazy smile stretched on his face, you wondered if he ever got mad. “We survived almost a whole day together, if I was gonna rob you I would’ve done it already.”

“It’s not that,” you say, picking at your nails, fighting the urge to bite them to shreds, “I wasn’t walking because I wanted too…”

Wheels turn in a tired mind as Eddie nearly chokes when he realizes what you meant.

“Don’t worry about it,” he confirms, brushing you off as if it wasn’t a big deal that you’d be bunking with him for free, and when your facial expressions didn’t change, he lowered his voice, and took off his sunglasses, “seriously sweets, you’re doing me a favor keeping me company, ‘m not gonna make you pay for a trip you didn’t plan, okay?”

You sighed, and shook your head yes.

The nearest motel was a hole in the wall type of place. Adhering to the kind of people that either paid by the hour or stayed for weeks at a time. The perk being it was next to a gas station where you refused to let Eddie pay for the armful of snacks he had carried to the counter. Including two hotdogs that you couldn’t be bothered wondering how long they’d been spinning in the warmer.

His boots clunked against the sidewalk as he jumped from the bed of the pickup hauling his duffle bag over his shoulder, the hotel keys wrapped around his forefinger. Outside of you both relieving yourselves on the empty shoulder of the highway last night, this was the first time you’d seen just how tall he was.

He squints in the sun and cocks his head, “bet you a dollar the carpet is orange.”

Room 8 consisted of two full sized beds, a lamp between the two, an arm chair and a small television. A stiff neon brochure for adult channels lay next to the remote, and you scrunched your nose as Eddie pushed it to the floor with the heel of his boot.

Laying out the snacks neatly on the table, you hand him the other hot dog, licking a drop of mustard from your palm. He thanked you, and took a bite consuming almost half of it before dropping onto the bed closest to the door, laying flat on his back.

Having four walls around you gave you a sense of peace you hadn’t been expecting. Slipping off your shoes you wiggled your bare toes and sat on the bed facing away from him, rolling your socks into one another.

“How’s the hotdog?” you asked over your shoulder, moving your bag between the side of your bed and the wall for the bathroom.

A muffled sound comes from the other side of the room as he shovels another bite in, “rubbery, but not too bad for having been made at midnight.”

You snort and swing your legs into the bed. Grabbing the hotdog from the comforter and peeling back the white paper around it, taking a small bite. It was warm, and tasted a hell of a lot better than the moldy ham sandwich you ate yesterday. A satisfied hum leaves your mouth and you giggle.

“Hotdogs for breakfast… don’t think I’ve ever had this before.” You laugh again before taking another bite of the squishy snack. Eddie looks up as he chews the remaining bite, realizing this was the first time he’d ever heard you laugh loud enough for him to hear, what a beautiful sound.

“Stick with me, we’ll have breakfast for dinner, too,” his tongue pokes out to lick a smear of ketchup from the corner of his lip, and he yawns loud and proud.

You cross your feet beneath your legs, a content little smile on your face. “Do I still owe you a dollar if the carpet is also brown and green?”

Your combined laughter echoes across the wood paneling and the pictures of dogs playing poker. The two of you joke about the severely dated room, agreeing that this was probably the place to stay in its prime. But the sheets were clean and that’s about all you could ask for at this point.

Eddie’s eyes were nearly closed as he scrubs large hands down his face, his voice strained, “mind if I shower ‘fore I fall asleep?”

“Not at all,” you say, jumping from the bed and looking through the snacks to find the licorice, “take all the time you need.”

He tosses the remote to your bed and unzips his bag, pulling out a toothbrush and a clean pair of boxer briefs, a minute passes and he scratches his head before diving back into the bag, yanking out a folded pair of sweatpants.

Sighing as he peels off his boots, he walks to the bathroom door and before shutting it, he pokes his head back out, a curious little grin on his lips as he asks earnestly, “you’re not gonna run away, are you?”

You swallow the bite of licorice and smile back, “think you’re stuck with me, if that’s cool with you?”

His grin broadens to a cheshire smile and he says he won’t be long, promising to save some hot water.

Neither of you can quit the grin on your lips until the door unlocks, and Eddie mutters “cool,” to himself before leaving the steamed bathroom.

Diners with smudge stained windows and siding that was warped from the sun's rays, came few and far between on those lone, dust covered roads. Eddie had pulled into almost every one. “Never know when the next one will pop up, sweetheart,” he smirked, sending a wink your way that had your stomach fluttering.

Each menu, although stickier at some places than others, was relatively the same. Eggs, Bacon, Toast. Waffles at the fancier joints or maybe a bowl of fruit alongside a flapjack.

He watched you intently as your eyes scanned the menu, keeping his promise of having breakfast for supper a few week into your trip. His own stomach had been grumbling since you packed up from the last motel somewhere on the border of Oklahoma and New Mexico. A wrong turn near McCamey had taken you North to Amarillo, three hundred miles in the completely opposite direction.

Instead of screaming about the wasted fuel, Eddie had only shrugged. He was excited to cross into the panhandle, and to make a check along the list of states you’d scribbled onto a napkin a few days into the trip to cross off as you came through them.

That quiet, suspicious drifter he had picked up three weeks ago seemed to blossom with life the more he peeled back the bricks that you had surrounded yourself with. But Eddie was charismatic, easy to talk to, and you found yourself deep in the throes of explaining things to him you haven’t talked about in years.

When your cheeks would heat and embarrassment creeped up your neck, you apologized for talking too much. He only shook his head, a small smile on his lips as he said that he didn’t mind, he wanted to know more.

The waitress strolled back over with a cigarette hanging from her lip, a gray ash practically a mile thick on it as she grumbled about the specials and set glasses of water on the table—ice already melted besides a sliver of a stubborn cube.

“I’ll take a cup of coffee,” he charmed, folding the menu placing his hands on top of it, “two eggs hard fried, a couple of sausage patties and wheat toast, also one of those slices of lemon meringue pie I saw in the display window.”

Without so much as a grunt, the waitress lifted her eyes to look you over. Setting down the vinyl menu, you place your order and lick your lips at the thought of the homemade lard crust on the rhubarb pie.

Looking out the window to the dry landscape, you sigh with a breath of content. You had never been this far west before, never been anywhere really besides the small town you grew up in.

Two coffees sit in front of each of you and Eddie thanks the waitress, a dimpled grin on his cheeks as he opens a packet of sugar. Warm eyes look at you as he stirs the coffee into a swirl, “Nothing like home, huh?”

A smile presses to your lips and you sip the bitter liquid, chipped porcelain against your front teeth, “definitely not, the air is dry here.”

“Yeah,” he agrees, slipping the spoon into his mouth to clean the coffee up, taking a big gulp of the burnt— probably microwaved— concoction, “it is, but that’s the beauty in the journey, exploring different places, meeting new people.”

He tucks a curl behind his ear, a tiny silver hoop in his lobe, you hadn’t noticed before and you ask, “you keen on picking up strangers on the side of the road?”

A laugh bubbles from his throat, and he smiles big showing all of his teeth, “in all the years I’ve been on the road, I never have, not until you,” he takes a sip of his coffee, a pretty blush rides on his cheeks, “guess I haven’t run out of luck just yet.”

You hide your own smile, itching your nose, “how long has it been?”

Eddie thinks for a minute, “well, I left Florida when I was seventeen..,” he adds up the years on his fingers with this thumb moving to each one, “… shit,” he says with a smirk, “almost nine years now.”

He was older, not by much, but you had both left at a younger age. Calling the open road and warm air home for years. Living like a Steve Earle song sporting a two pack habit and a motel tan, it seemed like fate put you on the same road that he was traveling that day.

But you push that thought away, Eddie was looking for love, and you were just tagging along like a pet, a friend at best.

“Do you ever miss it?”

He stretches himself across the booth, arms on the back of the peeling seat, pearl snaps straining against the denim from the broadness of his chest, and you find it hard not to look, “Nah, I’ll go back someday, me and my girl.”

That flutter happens again in your stomach and you feel almost nauseous at how infectious his smile is.

You spend the rest of dinner that way, trying to shove down a grin with each bite of breakfast food as the sun fell behind the mountains. Letting the butterflies swarm, with each time he looked into your eyes.

Not knowing that Eddie was also slowly losing his own battles, leaving with something more in his stomach that was sweeter then the stiff meringue on that damn lemon pie.

🌵 taglist: @joejoequinnquinn @micheledawn1975 @dashingdeb16 @hereforshmut @welc0me-t0-hellfire @aropodcastfuck

[lucysgraybird]

modern!billy with a farmers daughter!reader but not in the cute silly way?

youve grown up on a farm, ik billy is western but im actually thinking something more midwest; iowa/missouri/kansas

for the express purpose of the vibes of a once-great steel or railroad town, now resigned to notice by road trippers and academics researching the fall of industrial america

with this you've been kind of isolated; you had friends in high school but they've all either run as far as they could from their childhoods after graduation or languished in the remorse of not being able to escape

you. you didn't really want to escape; you're happy with your quiet ghostly life of taking care of your animals and avoiding talking politics with your parents

you grew up religious in a way that taught a god who was fear, you have made peace with a god who is your friend. knelt by your bed he has heard your deepest secrets told as girlish, gossipy whispers; your most outlandish, complicated questions asked like you are up too late at a sleepover

you are quiet for the most part, happy to twist your thoughts around into your head until they either make a pretty shape or break in two, and when you're not working the farm, you're wandering aimlessly through creeks and cemeteries and abandoned buildings

billy is, like everyone not born in a place like this, just stopping through - you meet him through your wanderlust, traipsing down a dead and dying main street as he pulls his equally moribund truck up to the curb, asking you for directions to the nearest mechanic

mechanic is the only one for miles and thus extortionate, but your father is handy and ready to help a stranger, so you tell billy that if his truck can make it a few miles up the road, he'll have a fixed engine for a reasonable price

he, of course, accepts and leans over to push open the door to give you a ride. you get to talking, learn that he was born in new york and has been living in new mexico, he's just travelling for a new job atm. he learns that you have lived here your whole life and have no real desire to move, have never had a reason to have that desire, and he smiles and tells you that he respects comfort in consistency, that he wishes he had a place he felt that settled

when you get back to your house your father helps billy fix his truck and your mother has you take iced tea out to the men, which you also drink a glass of while sitting on the cluttered porch and watching billy bent over the open hood

he's pretty, sure, but you cannot decide whether he is worth loving. if he is as transient as everything else that blows through this town like tumbleweeds, if - and a big if - you fell in love, would it flit away just as quickly as businesses seem to be closing down?

you pray those questions that night, as cricket song and sticky, heavy heat presses through your open window and gets circulated by a white box fan that stays on more for the comforting noise than any kind of cooling

god doesn't respond in words, because that's not how god works, but the next morning when you're in the grocery store squeezing plums to find one that is a little bit further from overripe than the others, billy finds you and tells you that he'll be staying in the motel in town for a few weeks (you make a face, he laughs) because his job has been delayed and maybe if you'd like to go out with him sometime, you could go to the one nice chain restaurant in town and if you decide you trust him (and his truck, which is still...questionably functional, even after repairs) enough, maybe you could drive out a little ways, just towards some of the corn fields? he would show you the stars?

and oh, you realize, this is god's answer and love and guiding hand. maybe it is time to move on.

[traintrainingmontage]

Assorted Character Headcanons: 5-7 (+ Emily)

James:

James is shockingly good at learning other languages. He picks up Sudrian rather quickly, surprising his crew, and gets snippets of Gaelic and Welsh when other engines or railway employees slip into those tongues. He even knows some French. It's a point of pride, but certainly one that makes him conceited at times. He's had a quite few moments where he asks the wrong question in the funniest way possible.

Percy:

I'm copying this over from where I submitted it to another blog, but Percy loves delivering the mail so much not just because it's a unique job, but it lets him make and see a lot of friends. In the RWS, Percy is shown to have a bunch of friends on the mainland; he probably has friends all around Sodor that he gets to catch up with during his mail runs and that's a huge motivator. He probably has the most friends of any engine on the island.

(Side note: I also have a headcanon about Percy's history and why it's never been confirmed in-universe.)

Toby:

His favorite pasttime is watching the stars with Henrietta. His driver and fireman have told him all about the constellations, and the two of them go stargazing all the time since they can get away from all of the light pollution and see the sky for what it is. It makes him feel small sometimes, but Henrietta says that it makes her feel like part of something bigger. All of the constellations make up the sky, just like all of the engines and coaches and trucks and vans make up the railway, and even if some constellations are bigger or more famous than others, it doesn't matter. They're all loved. And Toby finds that thought to be incredibly comforting.

Emily:

Emily really enjoys sunrises and sunsets. The beautiful colors are absolutely enchanting to her, and even though she's not a morning engine, she finds that on mornings when she manages to catch the sunrise, it makes her feel better. People have wondered what her fascination is, and to her, there's something marvelously comforting about how, when there's always new situations and complications happening, you can count on the certainty of the sun rising and setting to see something beautiful and uplifting at least once a day.

(My hc's for Thomas through Gordon are here!)

(Headcanons for the engines on the Little Western are here!)

[mattnben-bennmatt]

Matt Damon's interview w/ The Hollywood Reporter (30 September 2015)

‘The Martian’s’ Matt Damon Talks ‘Bourne’ Return, Politics and PC Flubs: “Oh My God, I Look Like an Asshole”

The A-list everyman, and star of Ridley Scott's stranded-in-space drama, talks with THR about acting on the red planet, his friendship with "misunderstood" Ben Affleck, thoughts on Trump, and the time Ben Carson performed surgery on him and Greg Kinnear.

By Stephen Galloway

-

I’m in a plane, banking steeply, near the end of a 22-hour journey. Under normal circumstances, I’d barely have the strength to look out the window. But as the Boeing 737 tilts at a hair-raising angle, I glance down. An island is coming into view, dominated by a massive volcano that rises 12,000 feet above the Atlantic Ocean, crowned by a sea of clouds (or “a sea of clowns,” as my Spanish driver puts it later).

This is Mount Teide, at the very heart of Tenerife, one of the Canary Islands just off the coast of Morocco, unknown to most Americans but as familiar to Europeans as Baja is to Californians. It’s a favorite of filmmakers such as the production team that’s now here shooting the latest, untitled installment of the Bourne franchise. The volcano towers over the land, its black-sand beaches and warren of “calles” (or streets) substituting for Greece in the picture. (Despite that nation’s economic woes, filming is cheaper in this Spanish provence). I’m told the volcano has been dormant for more than a century. But isn’t a dormant volcano the movie equivalent of Chekhov’s rifle, just destined to go off?

The fifth Bourne is shrouded in secrecy. Nobody is allowed on the set, including this reporter, and when I’m taken to see its star, Matt Damon — who seems poised for a major career boost with this and Fox’s much-anticipated space drama The Martian — two days after my arrival in mid-September, it’s under the veil of night. Still, the film’s presence can be felt everywhere: in the trucks stacked end-to-end at the edge of a small park in the heart of the city of Santa Cruz; in the tramline with a stop that’s been shut down for days and won’t open until the production departs for London a week hence; and in the collection of trailers at the picture’s base camp, reminiscent of the circled wagons that formed a line of defense against Indians in old Westerns — the “Indian,” in this case, being me.

It’s been nine years since Damon, 44, last tackled the role of Jason Bourne — and eight years since The Bourne Ultimatum was released — almost as long as he’s been married and a father of four kids (ages 4 to 17), during which he has gone from being a young action upstart to an industry veteran shouldering all the responsibilities of fame, family and middle age. But he retains the enthusiasm he once had for the part.

“I love this character,” he says. “He’s so smart and resourceful and easy to root for. I always wanted to play him again.”

Bourne won’t be out until next summer, and between now and then, Damon’s status as one of Hollywood’s few bankable stars, commanding as much as $20 million per picture, will be put to the test. He has had hits (three Bournes, three Oceans) and misses (We Bought a Zoo, Promised Land), and he admits the prospects of Bourne — and, more imminently, the Oct. 2 release The Martian, which THR‘s Todd McCarthy called “constantly absorbing” — weigh heavily on him.

“I’m not angst-free,” he says. “I mean, look, I’ve got a lot riding on this movie.”

Sitting in his trailer at 1 a.m., as we chat during his “lunch break” in the middle of a night shoot, Damon is hyper-alert, much more so than this jet-lagged reporter. After years of having his weight fluctuate between films, he looks buff in jeans and a tight, collarless shirt — though he claims to be nowhere near as fit as the astronauts he met while researching Martian.

He also seems older and more mature than the boyish figure who has been a familiar presence onscreen since the late 1990s; only traces linger of the perky young man who won an Oscar for co-writing (and starring in) Good Will Hunting in 1998. There’s a gravitas to him, beyond even Bourne‘s. His emotions rarely slip out; whatever passions once rocked him are buried in the past.

He’s also more thoughtful, and far more cerebral, than his regular-guy image might lead one to believe. The intellect he inherited from his university professor mother and onetime stock­broker father seeps through — it’s there in everything from his articulateness when he speaks about clean water (his most prominent cause) to his taste in books. He has just finished Passage of Power, the fourth part in Robert Caro‘s ongoing biography of Lyndon B. Johnson.

“[Bourne director] Paul Greengrass sent it to me a year or two ago and said it was his book of the year,” he says. “I came across it on the shelf and I’d forgotten about it. I looked at [its size], and I went, ‘No way.’ But I read it in a couple of days. I could not put it down. It’s such a comprehensive picture. I walked away thinking, ‘This guy is so f—ing complicated.’ And of course, we all are. We all are.”

He looks at me directly, almost as if challenging me to draw the inevitable conclusion about him. He has a striking mixture of intensity and ease, of emotions held back and wry humor. He hints at moments of loneliness (“lonely in a sense of, you know, you have to make a huge effort to see friends”) and restlessness (“We might move back to New York”) without revealing more. I wonder whether he’s always this contained or whether, like that volcano — dormant, but not extinct — his emotions might one day erupt.

“I had a terrible temper,” he acknowledges of his youth. “I mean, like, a problematic temper. I still get riled up and competitive.”

That’s one of several hints he gives of deeper currents, as is his account of undergoing hypnosis to give up a two-pack-a-day smoking habit just a few years ago. “It wasn’t nerves,” he says. “I think I’m just an addictive kind of person, and I got addicted to cigarettes. I smoked like crazy. Now it seems totally insane.”

Few things ruffle him — not my probing about this, nor the recent kerfuffle over remarks he made on a recent episode of Project Greenlight, the HBO reality series he executive produces with Ben Affleck, when he appeared to question the importance of diversity while speaking to an African-American.

“There was some context taken out,” he insists. Although he saw a near-final cut, he did not see a later, trimmed version. When he did, “I went, ‘Oh my God, I look like an asshole.’ I thought it was a really insensitive thing to say.” Later, he issued a mea culpa. (He was less apologetic during his Sept. 28 appearance on Ellen DeGeneres‘ show, where he addressed a second, more recent kerfuffle over an interview with The Guardian in which Damon seemed to suggest that gay actors should remain closeted. “I was just trying to say actors are more effective when they’re a mystery,” he explained. “And somebody picked it up and said I said gay actors should get back in the closet. Which is like, I mean, it’s stupid, but it is painful when things get said that you don’t believe.”)

The remarks were unexpected, coming from one of Hollywood’s most outspoken liberals, whose support for candidates such as Massachusetts Sen. Elizabeth Warren carries weight among his politically minded colleagues.

He doesn’t hide his disdain for Republican presidential candidate Ben Carson‘s remark that no Muslim should be commander in chief. “What he said is horrible and offensive and also just not true,” he says. “It’s literally written into the Constitution that your religion won’t bar you from any office, you know? So it’s not only horrible and offensive, but also wrong.”

He’s more familiar with Carson than most. “I met Ben Carson 22 years ago,” he recalls. “He gave the convocation speech for Columbia Med School, where my girlfriend at the time was going, and he gave a beautiful speech about who he was and where he came from. And then, because Carson had done the first successful separation of conjoined twins, when I did the movie Stuck on You, there’s a scene where Greg Kinnear and I are separated. Ben Carson plays the surgeon. We shot with him for the entire day. He could not have been lovelier. [But] I can’t believe some of the things that he says.”

Damon does not know Carson’s competitor, Donald Trump. “I’ve never met him,” he continues. “But when people are talking about putting a wall up, I just can’t take them seriously. I can’t. It seems so un-American. We have people running for the highest elected office talking about putting a wall up that would keep my wife and her family out of the country, you know?” (His wife of 10 years, Luciana Barroso, is an Argentine native and naturalized American.)

He says he supports Hillary Clinton on the Democratic side: “I love Elizabeth Warren, but she’s not running for president.” He also likes Joseph Biden and Bernie Sanders and wavers when pressed to choose among them, before coming down for Clinton. “I’m supporting Hillary,” he affirms, noting she’s the only candidate to whom he has given money this go-around.

Damon once was a vocal critic of President Obama for straying from a liberal agenda. But he now says that Obama’s moves since the last congressional election have restored his faith. He went to the White House late last year to screen The Monuments Men (along with co-stars George Clooney and Bill Murray) and found himself seated next to the first lady. Later, Damon spoke to Obama about what the actor had said.

“We talked about it, and look, even when I was giving him shit, he’s somebody who thinks so deeply about everything he does,” he says. “I don’t ever question that it’s coming from the right place with him. He’s a remarkable human being and shockingly easy to be around. He’s incredibly approachable and doesn’t beat you up with his station, though he could.”

In Hollywood, Damon has long been linked to Ben Affleck, his best friend since childhood. They remain close, running a production company together and — since Damon moved from New York in 2013 — even living on the same street in Pacific Palisades in L.A. Both have managed the rare, if not extraordinary, feat of remaining superstars.

It’s impossible not to be intrigued by the apparent opposites that Damon and Affleck represent, one as seemingly held back as the other is emotionally flamboyant — as if one is the other’s id unleashed and spinning out of control. But Damon rejects that impression.

“There’s nobody who’s more misunderstood,” he says of Affleck. “Ten years ago, the public image of him could not have been farther apart from who he actually is. It was like he was being cast in a role, that he was a talentless kind of meathead, with his whole relationship with Jennifer Lopez. He just got cast as this person that he wasn’t. It was just really painful. It was painful to be his friend, because it wasn’t fair, you know? To my mind, nobody really got him at all. And through his work, he climbed from the bottom of the mountain all the way back up to the top and past where either of us had ever been.”

If Affleck’s latest tabloid travails — for allegedly cheating on his wife, Jennifer Garner, with their nanny — trouble Damon, he doesn’t let on. Their friends, speaking on background, insist Matt and Ben are more similar than different.

“In the marketplace, everything gets exaggerated,” says their agent, WME’s Patrick Whitesell. “These guys are both super interested in doing a range of things — Matt’s diversity as an actor and Ben going down the road of writing, acting and directing. They’re all things that come from an artistic place, and they love the challenge of it. That spark is where they are very similar. And on a philanthropic level, they’re both very, very committed.”

In addition to his water concerns, Damon has been involved with his close friend Don Cheadle on Not on Our Watch, which supports those displaced by mass atrocities, and the ONE Campaign, which fights AIDS and poverty in developing nations. Affleck has given extensive support to the Eastern Congo Initiative, helping those affected by the conflict there.

The friends came close to reteaming on a biopic about Boston criminal Whitey Bulger, but they got beaten to the punch by Johnny Depp‘s Bulger film Black Mass.

“We had a very different take on it,” says Damon, noting he has not yet seen the Depp movie, though he has read the book by Dick Lehr and Gerard K. O’Neill on which it is based. Explaining the difference between the projects, he cites a letter he received from a South Boston author. “It was a really moving letter that basically said: ‘Don’t glorify this man any more. Please stop.’ And this is to take nothing away from Black Mass. I hear the movie’s great. But Ben and I agreed with the guy who’d written us. And so we came up with this idea of doing it more like an anti-gangster movie. Make it look like what it was: something grotesque.”

He and Affleck are developing other movies together through their Pearl Street Films, including a Robert F. Kennedy biopic (with Damon playing RFK and A Royal Affair‘s Nikolaj Arcel writing and directing), though no start date has been set. “It’s a wonderful script,” he says, acknowledging that he’s more focused on his next movie, Alexander Payne‘s Downsizing, which starts shooting early next year.

As to the actor’s long-held plans to direct, they’re some time from happening, especially while he is back at the peak of his acting career with Martian and the new Bourne. “I have to find the time,” he says. “I have to find the right project that’s going to fit with my life.”

The Bourne franchise has had its own strange odyssey, and it could have ended for Damon after Ultimatum, the third movie in the series. In Damon’s view, writer Tony Gilroy‘s script for a third was unfilmable. “It’s really the studio’s fault for putting themselves in that position,” he told GQ magazine. “I don’t blame Tony for taking a boatload of money and handing in what he handed in. It’s just that it was unreadable.” (Gilroy declined to comment.)

Damon and Greengrass decided not to embark on a fourth Bourne, leaving Universal to switch stars and create a spinoff featuring Jeremy Renner. The result, 2012’s The Bourne Legacy, grossed a disappointing $276 million worldwide (compared with Ultimatum‘s $443 million) and failed to anoint Renner a new action star. (Universal and producer Frank Marshall have vowed a follow-up with Renner.)

“I always tied myself to Paul,” says Damon. “I always said, if he came back, I would love to come back. And we would talk about it periodically. But we just didn’t have a story to tell. We just didn’t have anything. And the studio was under pressure because they have a deal with the estate: They have to make a Bourne movie or they [lose the rights]. I don’t know what the deal is, but I know that any time there’s a franchise that’s this successful, there’s a lot of pressure.”

He says any conflict is “water under the bridge” and notes that “Tony wrote The Great Wall,” the Zhang Yimou movie that Damon just wrapped in China. Still, he acknowledges, “I did not see [Gilroy] in China.”

In Tenerife, the production team is an ocean removed from those troubles, and crewmembers wander around the hotel where I’m staying exuding a certain joie de vivre. Greengrass, his untamed gray hair flying in all directions, putters cheerfully around the pool, as if happy to be back on the series he took over from Doug Liman.

Damon has no idea whether audiences will be hungry for more. “I don’t want to take that for granted,” he says.

Has he signed on for a sixth in the series? “No. I always just did one at a time. Even on the first one, they suggested me signing up for three, [but] I didn’t know if I was going to like making action movies. I didn’t ever want to be in a situation where I was roped to something and I couldn’t get away.”

More than material, Damon maintains it’s the director who draws him to projects. With The Martian — about an astronaut forced to get by on his wits after being stranded on Mars — that initially was Drew Goddard, who also wrote the script. Then Goddard left to direct Marvel’s yet-to-be-made Sinister Six.

At that point, “It didn’t have a director, so I thought it would go away,” says Damon. “And then I got a phone call from Patrick, who said, ‘Ridley Scott really wants to do this movie.’ ” Damon raced over to his office. “And he just goes, ‘This script is f—ing great!’ And I said, ‘Yeah. Why aren’t we making this movie?’ And he went, ‘I don’t know.’ And that was it.”

Scott remembers the humor Damon displayed in that meeting and how easygoing he was, qualities he valued during the intense shoots. “He is the most polite, nicest guy I’ve ever worked with,” says the filmmaker. “There’s no star attitude; there’s no attitude at all, which is really refreshing and nice. But, underneath it, he’s very sophisticated in his awareness of what he’s doing.”

Early on, the two discussed Damon’s upcoming picture, Interstellar, and whether similarities between the films posed a problem. That movie was the only one Damon had made in 18 months — just a week’s work, interrupting his first prolonged hiatus since he started as an actor, triggered by his move to L.A.

“I said: ‘You know, I really want to do this with you, but I just did a cameo in Chris Nolan‘s movie. Very, very different, but it’s about a guy stranded by himself on a planet,’ ” says Damon. “It might be weird to follow that up with playing a guy stranded on …’ And Ridley said, ‘It’s not going to matter. One year in between the films, that’s a lifetime now.’ “

The $108 million Martian was a risky proposition, given that Damon would have to perform solo through much of the movie, with just a greenscreen.

“We shot about seven weeks in Budapest, and then four weeks in Jordan,” he says, noting the strange, almost otherworldly landscape of Jordan’s sandstone-and-granite valley, Wadi Rum. “It was all greenscreen [in Budapest]. It was a massive greenscreen, and they put the Hab there, the Habitat I’m living in. They put that in the middle, and then everything around was soundstage. Then we had a second Habitat in Wadi Rum, and I’d walk out of the Hab, and I’d be in Wadi Rum.”

One of the major challenges he faced was imbuing the movie’s comedy with an underlying sense of fear. “We had a big conversation about the concept of dread,” he recalls, noting that he and Scott spent several days going over the script line by line, discussing each emotional beat, before they filmed. “Because the movie’s light and funny, we talked about: How do you keep all that? How do you infuse it with this [humor] without losing the stakes?”

During the shoot, he observed Scott with interest, recognizing the director’s stamp on each frame. A former artist, Scott graduated with First Class Honors from London’s Royal College of Art, along with David Hockney.

“There was a shot late in filming, where I was sitting in the MAV, the Mars Ascent Vehicle, getting ready to be launched,” Damon remembers. “And I went to watch the playback with him, and it was really just the top of my shoulder and this helmet and a little piece of my face. But it was unquestionably a Ridley Scott shot. I said, ‘Why do I know that’s a Ridley Scott shot? What is that?’ And he puzzled over it for a second. He said, ‘You know, when I’m setting up that shot, all I’m thinking is, I want to make this as simple and truthful and honest as I can.’ “

It is a testament to Damon’s strong character, or possibly his acting skills, that he can accept slices of marinated dorade from the private chef who serves us in his trailer and still appear wholly uninterested in luxury.

Outside movies and family, most of his energy is devoted to nonprofit work, particularly through Water.org, which he founded with Gary White and which supports clean water projects throughout the world.

He flinches at the memory of a trip to Ethiopia in 2009 when he saw a new well that had fallen into disuse. “There were these children drinking out of a hand-dug well, and they were filling up bottles full of this muddy water,” he says. “It looked like chocolate milk. It was literally brown. And they were taking it to school. And right next to this hand-dug well [was] a state- of-the-art well that an Indian NGO had put in — you know, $10,000 or $15,000. They had raised the money like wonderful people trying to do their very best, and they’d come to this village and put this state-of-the-art well in. But they hadn’t brought any spare parts, and they hadn’t taught the people in the village how to maintain the well, so, obviously, eventually the thing breaks. Then it just sits there and rusts, and people are back to the hand-dug well again, and kids are dying of completely preventable diseases once again.”

If clean water is one passion, his greatest remains his family. He will celebrate a decade of marriage this year; his wife (a former bartender whom he met while shooting in Miami) and four daughters have altered his life profoundly, he says, giving him “a big, kind of existential relief.”

“I remember thinking, in my early 30s, that I wouldn’t [get married], you know?” he reflects. “I didn’t think it was going to happen for me. My brother found his soul mate very young; he’d just turned 26 when they were married. He’d been married for 10 years by the time I even met my wife, and I looked at this really happy, wonderful marriage and kind of went, ‘I guess that’s not going to happen for me.’ And then it did.”

He refuses to be apart from his family for more than two weeks at a time; either they come to see him or he returns to Los Angeles. He is still getting used to the idea that his eldest daughter, Alexia, 17 (his wife’s from a previous marriage), will not join the rest of the family in visiting him when Bourne shifts to London in early October. “She’ll stay back with her grandmother and in school,” he says. “So that’s a big one for us. We’ve never split the family.”

He adds: “I heard once, you spend all of this time trying to protect your heart, and then you have kids, and it’s like you put it in their bodies and send them out into the world, and you can’t possibly know everything that comes with that. It’s a very, very different way to be in the world.”

For just a moment a depth of emotion surges in him. The lava comes close to bubbling up, then subsides.

[fleurcareil]

East Quebec: Côte Nord part 2

In the morning, when I checked in for the boat excursion for a tour of the western Mingan Archipelo,, I was surprised to receive a thick lifevest-jacket as the excursion the previous day had been on a regular tourist boat... turned out that we were now braving the rough sea on a little speedboat! 😳 Needless to say that we got quite some wave-spray over us but luckily the wind dried quickly again👍.

The first island we passed by was literally covered with hundreds of seals, which quickly slipped into the water when we got closer. Very special to see, especially when a few curious ones came over to check us out 😍. I really need to buy a better camera to capture wildlife but trust me, there's many seals in the pic!

We then visited the Île aux Perroquets which is named after the many puffins which make the island its home. I've seen puffins several times before in Newfoundland and Iceland but they continue to be extremely cute with their beaks & droopy eyes 💖 (There's 3 in the top left corner of the first photo and then 6 in the last one). The island is tiny with a road from the dock to the lighthouse where you can stay overnight - mostly done by hardcore birdwatchers of which there were a few with massive telescope cameras - I should have asked them for a copy of their photos! 😂

The second island we visited was Île Nue de Mingan that has again several monoliths on the shores of a treeless, sub-artic landscape due to the high winds and drought (despite being in the middle of the sea 🤔). Same as the day before, we were greeted on each island at the dock by a Parks Canada guide who would tell us about the geology, fauna & flora and cultural history, which made it feel very welcoming and unique, especially as we were the only group that day as a result of the rough sea. At the end of the visit, the captain had fished (with a mop that they easily cling to 😁) some sea urchins for us to try, a delicious salty taste like oysters! (My mother would not appreciate 😅)

The way back to shore was tough as we were now going straight into the waves, so I arrived back at the car more wet than dry... luckily I got tons of clothes with me on this trip. 😜

An hour further west I did a pretty hike to two waterfalls on the Manitou river, which were very impressive in terms of the water volume and their surroundings (still the same skeleton boreal forest though 😂). Down & then up again lots of stairs meant my muscles were being worked!

For the rest of the day, it was a long slog of 515km driving in the rain & fog to my next stay... The sea is pretty whether it's sparkling blue on a calm day or like on this stormy day, white-capped crashing onto the shore, so it was beautiful no matter what, but the difficult driving conditions (more poignant when I passed by an overturned truck) made it very tiring. Had a quick dinner at a packed microbrewery at Baie-Comeau, thereby officially completing my Labrador loop which I had started in the same town 12 days earlier 😲🥳, and arrived at 8:30pm at a cute B&B in Portneuf-sur-Mer where the lady of the house made me a cup of tea 😊. Didn't see much attractions on this long day and although I could have taken an extra day over this stretch to visit a few more lighthouses, do coastal hikes etc, at the same time I was getting fed-up with all the bad weather and ready to move inland...

But... my very last day on Canada's eastern seaborne turned out to be beautiful once the fog had lifted during a walk on a sandbar (which was nothing special but feels good to start the day with a small walk 😄). The Haute-Côte-Nord area around the fjord of Saguenay is famous for its thirteen (!) types of whales, and Parks Canada manages two great observation centres; the Marine Environment Discovery Centre where the presentation on anemones & sea stars (touching allowed! 😃) was interrupted when a pod of 7 belugas and also two porpoises cruised by 💖, and the Cap de Bon-Désir, where people simply sit on the rocks while an interpreter answers any questions. Two mink whales were the star attraction coming up again & again in different places, but in any case, if you like me have nothing important to do, there's much worse than just soaking in the sun & staring at the sea! 😊😎

I did pull myself away eventually to drive myself over to Tadoussac, which is undoubtedly a nice village when it's not overrun by tourists, to catch the ferry across the fjord. Grocery shopping at La Malbaie where the high waterlevel in the river from the recent downpours was clearly visible, and then finally made my first dinner over a campfire since I started the trip! Glass of wine and off to bed...

Wildlife: 100's of seals, puffins, razorbills & female eiders, 2 loons and 1 porpoise (West Mingan islands), 7 belugas, 2 porpoises & 1 grey seal (Marine discovery centre), 2 mink whales, 2 porpoises, 2 harbour seals, 1 grey seal & 1 loon (Cap de Bon-Désir)

SUPs: none

Hikes: one at the Manitou waterfalls

Distance driven this week: 968km

[thesudrianchronicles]

The Opening

Dear friends

Hello! Welcome to the world of "North Western Chronicles." A Thomas The Tank Engine AU, set in a similar, but ultimately, different timeline from our own. NWC is a part of the wider 63A Universe, which is also of my own making. Most things here really came about from crack ideas & thoughts. But also ideas that have been in my mind now for a few years. Anyway, I hope you find both NWC & 63A to be of interest. And if not, you can dump me in the sea.

The Author

Welcome to the ride of your life.

https://www.tumblr.com/northbritishatlantic/712109952863485952/nwc-nwr-loco-fleet -NWR Loco database (Updates possible)

NWC Stories (To be Updated)

Push-Pulling My Strings

Crying Over Split Milk

A New Job For Milky

George And The Trucks

Things That Go AHHH In The Night

It's Fairlie Basic

Finally! An Atlantic!

Wrong Side Of The Grass

A Royal Flush

Caddy's Chocolate Crunch

Halls & West Countrys

More Than You Can Pull

Unlucky Number 13

A Merry Harbour Christmas

The Last Claughton

Alison

[DATA EXPUNGED]

The Meeting

Last One Standing

Off The Straight & Narrow

Little Giant

Smile Like You Mean It

NWC Miniseries (To be Updated)

THE STAR & THE ATLANTIC

A New Engine

Lovestruck

A Scotsman Problem

Express Coming Through

Christmas, 1935

KOMI THE SLIENT ENGINE

It's Just A Quiet Shunter

It's Just Making New Friends

It's Just Shunting 101

It's Just Some Odd Engines

It's Just Some Yard Things

It's Just Christmas

It's Just Bolier Flu

It's Just A Day Out

It's Just Valentine's Day

It's Just A Happy End

VICARSTOWN MUSEUM ENGINES

Welcome To The Museum

Escape From Derby

THE FIVE A3's

You're On The List

Saved For The Nation

Record Breaker

For Sale (Going Cheap)

Falkirk Or Bust

Reunited

THE SUDRIAN CATHEDRAL

The 21st

Welcome.....Cathedral?

Trials & Mirrors

Noah

A lesson well learned

You're A Good Engine Wellan

RAIL OMENS (UNDER REWORK)

[jellorat]

The Current State of Transgender Hate

With the current level of hatred and politics being forced on anyone that is trans, my wife and I feel very under siege.

I'm a transgender man, so I fly under the radar, but my wife a gorgeous 6'2" and visibly trans. She's 51, but looks 20 years younger than that. She can't pass and hide being transgender, nor does she really want to. She's happy with herself, and that really should be all that matters.

Yet, at IKEA last Saturday, my wife used the bathroom, and some boomer aged Karen sidled up and literally stared at my wife's crotch until boomer Karen realized my wife was paused in her hand washing and staring right back at her.

In the car, some dude in a truck was staring at her boobs, and kept moving his truck forward to star at her with his jaw wide open.

On the way home from work today, she stopped by her favorite pot shop. There is a gender nonconforming clerk there that has great clothing and nail polish. I don't know if the clerk is trans or just gender nonconforming. We politely smile and focus on business because you know how it is.

My wife was being rung up out by the clerk, when some dude holding a toddler entered the pot shop and literally stared at my wife.

He turned to the employee, got flustered, and asked "Is there another staff on duty?!" when the employee helping my wife said yes, he said, "Send them out to my car!" and aggressively stalked off.

An employee went out, talked to him, and he left. His car had one of those racist dog-whistle Gadsden Flags on it. Here's an article on its shifting meaning these days.

I guess bringing a toddler to a pot shop is okay, you know, as long as none of us trans folks are in there.

It's just so insane. My wife can literally go nowhere without these things happening now, and we live in Western Washington! Bluer than blue politically, and filled with a lot of generally fantastic people.

The people attacking transgender people also appear to be the kind of people that "aren't racist", heavy on the quotation marks, and have issues with gender rolls and probably women. The Venn diagram seems to skew into a circle on those topics.

I have always maintained that these folks have some sort of hopped up in-group out-group psychology, and genuinely like attacking others that are not a part of their in-group. It's a hobby, a pastime, and they just don't care. If it wasn't us, it would be someone else. They are an attack looking for a target.

It's just a little scary that right now me and my loved ones are that target.

[nerdcrawfish]

Jumping off Shibara. (Also in writing this I'm going to be hounding women in the first part SOLELY because I'm writing from the predominate western society/US idea that there are two genders and that anything not man equals women. Which I don't agree with at all. I'm analyzing them, not condoning them.)

No, you can clearly tell with things like the "new" trilogy of Star Wars or Supernatural that this phenomenon is a thing with some male writers. The idea of non-males being in "nerdy" areas is uncomfortable for them because of numerous reasons. One, it stops just being "their" thing. Female fans especially are seen as lesser/"fans of poor quality materials". AND then the classic: "I don't know how to see women/non-men as equal human beings because I (imparted by society) have this idealized idea of women and them being in my nerdy stuff does NOT align with my mental schemata at all!" Ever played MTG as a non-male at a card shop? Yeah, you know what I'm talking about.

In general, there is discomfort at so many levels from not matching in schemata, to what defines women, to the idea that we're intruding in "their space", the idea of "biology", to even the idea that they have to act, write, and do things different because a women is around.

There's a shitton of baggage in society about women and non-males in nerdy spaces. It's waaayyy better now, but it still happens A LOT. It still is prevalent and it WILL be getting worse now that Diet Sunkist is in back in office and all the waves of social conservatism is going to be re-surging JUST like you got locked in an overflowing porta-potty and some asshole just ran into it with their double wide Texas Made Ford truck.

(Oh and I can and happily talk about the overlap of neo-nazism and online queer spaces and this need for conservatism and how that keeps translating over to over policing and fandom hate of queer stories in a moment). And yes a lot of authors hate our existence in "their" spaces just as much as their nerdy fanboys do.

Furman will ALWAYS be the classic example because he constantly refuses to allow the idea of female transformers. This is because he sees war fighting robots as only male. This harks back to the fact that the conversation of whether women can fight has it's root so far back in history, especially white history, because women are seen only as a resource to be kept and protected. (Hence the overturning of Roe V Wade and that awful man's "You don't have a choice!" video) And even if he keeps saying he sees them as nonbinary he is using male oriented schemata in his writing--he's using hegemonic markers of masculinity in his writing and the making of his Transformer Characters. He writes them so overwhelmingly male that you and I know--based on so many context clues and tells--that Optimus Prime is male. I very much doubt Furman does see them as non-binary (especially because I doubt he has any actual understanding of what that would even mean) and is instead trying to stay above fandom ire.

So Furman--overwhelmingly yes. He hates women being in his nerdy robot stuff. He loves our money and attention but just like Picasso, we're nothing more than some pretty fancy furniture that is pretty one moment and beyond infuriating the next with our "needs" and "equality".

BUT you're going to look me in the fucking eye and tell me ROBERTS is the same as Furman? HA.

No, MTMTE/LL is a fucking LOVE LETTER to the transformers community. He pointed at us--ALL OF US--and said: "This one goes out for my homies!"

But just like we talked about entitlement of authors? Oh there is a definite entitlement when it comes to fans, too. It was pungent as HELL when MTMTE/LL was running and it was why I always stayed off of social media and had so many people blocked. Like Shibara says: just because they wrote something that you don't like doesn't mean it's bad writing. IT ALSO doesn't mean it's an attack on you.

AND I will say that censorship/Neo-nazisim is RANK in this ideology. It festers uncontrollably in this shit swamp of a psychological lens. The ideology that someone is bad/attacking you because of what they write/create is based on two things: you belief in your superiority AND that it means that you thus get to dictate others around you. This ideology, however, gives little young knuckleheads the idea that they're the good guys and that there are bad guys that need to be hurt based on shit like a book. This is why censorship has, and always will (pick up any fucking history book please), lead to people dying.

It also has permeated its way into queer spaces online. It's a fucking fact. Look at the rates of young Polish voters--who in the same breath support queer rights but at the same time believe anyone who isn't "the right type of polish" (white) needs to be removed from the country. The day that Republicans realize if they accept queer rights that they will be able to win all the races and reinstall Jim Crow laws to the fucking max in the US is one I dread immensely. You can try to argue with me, sure, but it's one I've been tracking as a child and is why we are seeing so much support for nativist/neo-nazi groups across the Western Globe. Like, do we not recall the party gymnastics France had to do a little bit ago to avoid the hella RACIST National Party from getting so much leverage? Anyways, I digress.

Roberts wrote a piece of work that acknowledged the fact (like most of the IDW 2005 run did) that we are adults. Not like the stuff Hasbro always like to run--which is just some moving forms to elicit mediocre bonding in the wish to sell cheap pieces of plastic to little kids (which hey man, you do you). (Okayy, so I'm thinking more of the general we have to keep rebooting our lines every other week and that when it starts getting serious/the writers are flourishing, oh surprise! we're getting cut short!)

No, we're talking more like the TF Marvel Comics (oh yeah baby) especially the UK side of the house--this media was always for the more mature sets of the demographic/fans. More of your older kind of teen boy--but there's a huge difference in that from say rescue Bots (which cute but doesn't have the je ne sais quoi (<--sarcastic usage) of let's say the idea of Spiderman being disgusted with Ratchet because Ratchet didn't cry over his friends being torn apart. This requires a difference of thinking and isn't a stereotypical "good ending". It's meant to invoke a sense of defeat and that shitty feeling of being misunderstood. Like we KNOW Ratchet is a great guy and that his buddies are fine because he's a medic and will just fix them up. BUT Spiderman, another fantastic guy, isn't aware of that and hates Ratchet nonetheless! It's meant to make you not feel good but provides a delicious depth of things like perceptions and not taking time to actually connect with and understand others.

So Roberts was writing not to the original demographic of the G1 Cartoon but to those us who grew up with it. To the ones of us who grew up reading and watching the original runs of so much Transformers material. And, brilliantly, I would add, acknowledged the fact that a lot of fandoms are indeed filled with, like said before, 20+ women.

He wrote MTMTE/LL with the target demographic of adults. Now, we usually associate that with age but in my time in college, working part-time and being amongst y'all--I've learned that you can be 67 and still be an immature stupid piece of shit who got their High School degree as a participation award.

Knowing that, I am arguing he put in a BIG FUCKING NOTICE that "Hey, this isn't G1 cartoon transformers! If you're here for that TURN BACK" with the fact that Ratchet is introduced literally doing an autopsy. And in order to do an autopsy--someone needs to be dead. Whirl is desecrating fucking corpses. And by the end, 40 plus bots are falling like meteors burning up in the fucking atmosphere of a planet. Oh and the entire playback message of: "Oh my primus everything is horrible and terrible-- we fucked up--STOP THE LAUNCH"

Roberts explicitly--so fucking explicitly that even if you have the reading comprehension of a peanut--you would understand just from Issue 1 that bots were going to die, the story is going to be dark, and be just how like my life motto goes: "Life is short, painful and shitty and those who don't deserve to suffer or die always end up doing just that. So let's fucking go." (said with a morbid sense of optimism! :D )

He wrote for us, as adults. And as an adult, he talked to us as an adult. He broached topics that hurt--a lot. And he was happy to see when we hurt because that meant he did his fucking job well.

Every time you feel nothing about a death in a story--that means the writer fucking sucked. Every time I write a fanfic and I have people screaming in my comments--it gives me delight BECAUSE that means I successfully got you to connect. I gave you all the right tells, I used the right structure, I used the right language and every FUCKING THING in my arsenal as a writer to share the beautiful pain that I went through in thinking up this story.

Just like he was, I'm beyond delighted because we're essentially bonding. I'm sharing my brain's secretions that have both delighted and tormented me for months going on years with you and you're feeling the same things. You're fucking feeling. My story isn't just some shitty words on a page--no it's a fucking story.

Roberts told us a story. He sat us down and told us a story. As equals.

And the reason why AI will fucking NEVER live up to actual living creators is because it doesn't have anything to give. It doesn't have any ability to connect.

Furman sucks as a writer for us because he refuses to connect to us if we're not like him.

Roberts has and always will respect every single one of us and has always been a fan--just like us.

[cliffcreighton]

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Postcards from my past

Come on, come on take a little ride with me You just might trip over some of your own memories, eventually?

I had moved out of my parents' house 2 days after HS graduation, my 1st place was this studio in Lowell, then I decided to move up in the world and got this 2-room place in the center of Fitchburg MA

It was the summer of 1985.

One night I discovered this little door in the ceiling of a closet in the bedroom. It contained drop downstairs to the roof. As far as I could tell it was the only access to the flat roof. The building is still there, it's now part of the Fitchburg Art Museum, corner of Elm and Academy streets. Back in the 80s Elm Street in "the burg" was not the best place to live, my friends at the time nicknamed my place Nightmare on Elm.

Across the street was the Post office and bank parking lot. That's where I would park my 1960 Ford F100 Pick-up and my 1980 Suzuki GS450S. I couldn't see the lot from the two windows I had but if I went up to the roof, I could see all around the building. I spent many nights up there. I don't remember being worried that someone would steal my truck or bike, but I would often go up at night just to check out the lot, and then lay on a folding beach chair my mom gave me, many nights just lying there looking up at the stars enjoying the cool night air.

That little twin cylinder Suzuki was my 2nd motorcycle, my 1st one that I purchased myself. Bike number one was given to me as payment for helping my brother-in-law work one summer. The Suzuki was black with gold mag wheel and a little bikini fairing over the headlight. Even though it was the same size as my 1st bike (450) it felt like a completely bike, my first introduction to a cafe racer style bike.

I was 18-year-old, living on my own and riding my motorcycle as much as possible. I had a few buddies at the time that also rode, but they were also into playing golf and other activities. Slowly as the summer months went on I found myself riding more solo trips then with my buddies. Now keep in mind this was 1985, way before cell phones, gps devices and other gadgets that make exploring so much easier today.

I had paper maps and motorcycle/travel magazines and books. I also had this strong desire to just get out and find places, it's been something I've expressed in my stories in the past, its just who I am. I would load up my backpack with a bologna sandwich some Wachusett chips and a coke, strap it to the back seat and click that little black Suzuki in gear and go. It was a new way to discover and explore. I spent many days riding around central and Western MA finding roads like Mohawk Trail, Route 116 and even took that black and gold bike up Route 100 in Vermont. Then I would wander back to Fitchburg and sit up on the roof on Elm Street and fall asleep under the bright stars.

It was such an amazing summer.

Fast forward to this past weekend and the Old School is Cool 1st Sunday of the month ride to eat in West Boylston. Seeing some cool old bikes and chatting with riding buddies has become such a fun way to spend a few hours once a month. There was a 1991 CBR250RR there, a nice clean RZ350 and several Honda CB's.

Then I saw it, a postcard from my past! A 1980 GS450S, and S! You see the S version of Suzuki's GS line was pretty rare, even back in 1980 it was rare. Most GS were the Standard L models. This one wasn't the black model but that didn't matter. Somehow, I didn't see it pull in, so I wasn't sure who rode it in. I found this table of gentlemen around my age and went up and said, "who's on that GS450?" Probably a little too enthusiastically too, because the owner said, its mine and it's for sale! Want to take it for a ride was his next comment!

Talk about a time machine!

You might be wondering, Jim did you buy from him?

To be continued.....

[consistantly-changing]

[Image transcripts in order: What you can NOT illustrate: Mushroom house or any related, text or typography, deserts, drawing based on Al generated image, dragons and mermaids, bones as a part of scene, any scene related to violent or graphic content]

[INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO: Mushrooms, Ying-yang sign, Peace sign, Corner suns, Daisies, Famous people, Race cars, Horses, Rock stars, Polka dots, Trucks, Planes, Cars, Ballet, Suns, Theatre Masks, Moons, Dragons and Dinosaurs, Stars, Hearts, Feathers, Birds, School mascots, Athletics, Sports Illustrated pictures, General flowers, Music covers, Copyright materials, Furry and non-furry animals, Drugs, Kittens, Alcohol, Puppies, Cigarettes, Eyes, Tigers, Leopards, Snakes, Butterflies, Unicorns, Pegasus, Under the sea, Side fish, Cartoons, Anime, Clothing and shoe logos, Dolphins, Rainbows, V or M birds, Dragons, Princesses, Balloons, Puffy clouds, Stick people, Tears, Gaping Mouths, Monsters, Western themes, Howling wolves, Wizards, Vampires, Aliens, Outer space, Lipstick tubes, Ipods/Phones, Love, Hearts, broken or otherwise, Eyeballs, Tagging, Seasonal themes, Ladybugs, Crowns, Angels, Mythical themes, Teddy bears, Bows, Simple fireworks, Close ups of watches/clocks, Half faces, Generic houses, Fire, Blood and guts, Camo, Food, Snowmen, Pyramids, Deer heads/antlers, Tree frogs, National Geographic copies, Makeup ads, Pot Leaves, Smiley faces, Roses with or without dew, Bats, People kissing, Drama masks, City, Skylines, Spiders, Palm trees, Beach scenes, Umbrellas, Seashells, Fairies, Scallop waves, Dripping blood, Knives, Devils, Tulips, Bubbles, Puffy/fluffy clouds, Dollar sign, Disney characters/video game imagery, Eight ball, Lips, Sun with sunglasses, any Emoji, Swords, Bubble lettering, Flames, Mermaids, Crescent moon, Skulls, Cats, Trees, Birds, stuff on fire.]

[Why should you avoid these images? They are common and trite. It has been done to death. It does not challenge you as an artist or as a student. It comes across as immature or elementary. You can do better!

FIND INTENTION!]

have i ever shown you guys my professor’s DNI list

[fabby-peterson]

Cummins vs. Detroit: Pick the Perfect Truck Engine

Choosing the right truck engine for your business is crucial for efficiency, reliability, and cost-effectiveness. Two of the most reputable names in the industry are Cummins and Detroit. Both offer powerful, durable truck engines, but they have distinct features and benefits that might make one a better fit for your needs than the other. In this blog, we’ll compare Cummins and Detroit engines, providing you with the information needed to make an informed decision for your truck fleet.

Cummins Engines: Power and Versatility

Cummins has been a leader in the diesel engine industry for decades, known for producing robust truck engines that deliver power and reliability. Here are some key points about Cummins engines:

1. Power and Performance

Cummins engines are renowned for their high torque output and impressive horsepower, making them ideal for heavy-duty applications. Whether you’re hauling heavy loads or driving long distances, Cummins engines provide the power needed to get the job done efficiently.

2. Fuel Efficiency

Fuel efficiency is a significant concern for any business, and Cummins excels in this area. Their truck engines are designed to optimize fuel consumption, helping to reduce operating costs over the long term.

3. Durability and Longevity

Cummins engines are built to last, with a reputation for durability that’s hard to beat. They require less frequent maintenance and can withstand the rigors of tough working conditions, making Cummins engines a cost-effective choice in the long run.

4. Versatility

Cummins offers a wide range of truck engines suitable for various applications, from light-duty trucks to heavy-duty haulers. This versatility allows businesses to choose the perfect Cummins engine for their specific needs.

Detroit Engines: Innovation and Efficiency

Detroit, a subsidiary of Daimler Trucks North America, is another top contender in the truck engine market. Known for their innovative technology and efficiency, Detroit engines offer several advantages:

1. Advanced Technology

Detroit engines are equipped with cutting-edge technology that enhances performance and efficiency. Features like the Detroit Connect Virtual Technician provide real-time diagnostics and support, minimizing downtime and keeping your trucks on the road.

2. Fuel Economy

Detroit engines are designed with fuel economy in mind. Their advanced fuel management systems help maximize mileage, reducing fuel expenses and lowering your overall cost of ownership.

3. Emissions Compliance

Environmental regulations are becoming increasingly stringent, and Detroit engines are built to meet these standards. They incorporate advanced emissions control technologies, ensuring compliance with the latest regulations and reducing the environmental impact of your fleet.

4. Integration with Freightliner and Western Star

Detroit engines offer seamless integration if your fleet includes Freightliner or Western Star trucks. This compatibility ensures optimal performance and reliability, enhancing the overall efficiency of your operations.

Making the Right Choice for Your Business

When choosing between Cummins and Detroit engines, consider the following factors:

1. Application

Think about the specific needs of your business. Cummins might be the better choice if you require high horsepower and torque for heavy-duty applications. Detroit could be more suitable for advanced technology and fuel economy.

2. Fuel Efficiency

Evaluate the importance of fuel efficiency for your operations. Both Cummins and Detroit offer fuel-efficient options, but Detroit’s advanced fuel management systems may provide an edge in reducing fuel costs.

3. Maintenance and Support

Consider the availability of maintenance and support services. Cummins has a widespread service network, making it easier to find parts and get repairs done quickly. Detroit also offers excellent support, especially if you have Freightliner or Western Star trucks in your fleet.

4. Total Cost of Ownership

Look beyond the initial purchase price and consider the total cost of ownership. Factor in fuel costs, maintenance expenses, and the expected lifespan of the engine. Cummins engines are known for their durability, while Detroit’s technology can help reduce long-term costs.

Both Cummins and Detroit engines offer exceptional performance and reliability, but the right choice depends on your business’s specific needs and priorities. By considering factors like application, fuel efficiency, maintenance, and total cost of ownership, you can make an informed decision that will keep your truck fleet running smoothly and efficiently.

For expert maintenance and repair services, consider Diesel Clinic Truck Repair Shop. Our experienced technicians specialize in both Cummins and Detroit engines, ensuring your trucks stay in top condition regardless of your choice. Contact us today to learn more about how we can support your fleet's needs.

[simicenter]

Top 10 Reasons: Why We’re the Best in Automotive, Semi-Truck, Trailer, and RV Repairs Since 1979 in Simi Valley

When it comes to automotive, semi-truck, trailer, and RV repairs, finding a reliable and experienced service center is crucial. In Simi Valley, California, Simi Center stands out as the best choice for a multitude of reasons. Since 1979, we have been dedicated to providing exceptional repair services to our community. Here are the top 10 reasons why Simi Center is the best in the business:

1. Comprehensive Range of Services

At Simi Center, we offer an incredible range of services that cover everything you might need for your vehicle. Whether it’s an RV, semi-truck, trailer, or a personal vehicle, our skilled technicians can handle it all. Our services include:

RV Collision Repair

Semi-Truck Repair

Commercial Truck Repair

Diesel Truck Repair

RV Accessory Installation

Fleet Maintenance

Automotive Repair

RV Solar Repairs

RV & Truck Wash & Detail

Our one-stop-shop approach ensures that you can get all your repair and maintenance needs met in one place.

2. Decades of Experience

Having been in the business since 1979, Simi Center has accumulated decades of experience. This extensive experience means that we have seen and repaired virtually every type of issue you might encounter. Our longevity is a testament to our reliability and the trust our customers place in us.

3. Certified and Qualified Technicians

Our team consists of certified, experienced, and highly qualified technicians who can work on any make and model of RV, semi-truck, trailer, or automotive. This certification ensures that all repairs are performed to the highest standards of quality and safety.

4. Exceptional Customer Service

Customer satisfaction is at the heart of our business. We strive to provide exceptional customer service by understanding our clients’ needs and delivering on our promises. Our friendly and knowledgeable staff are always ready to assist you with any questions or concerns you may have.

5. Free Estimates and Insurance Assistance

We offer free estimates for all our services. This transparency ensures that you know exactly what to expect in terms of cost and time. Additionally, if you are going through an insurance claim, we help you navigate the process to get rebates on the deductible, making the experience as stress-free as possible.

6. Quality Control and Lifetime Warranty

Quality control is a crucial part of our repair process. We use only original and manufacturer-certified parts to ensure the longevity and reliability of our repairs. Moreover, we stand behind our work with a lifetime warranty, giving you peace of mind that your vehicle is in good hands.

7. State-of-the-Art Facilities

Our repair center is equipped with state-of-the-art facilities and tools to handle any repair job, big or small. From advanced diagnostic equipment to high-performance detailing products, we invest in the best to provide top-notch service to our clients.

8. Wide Array of Brand Expertise

We are adept at handling a wide variety of brands, including major truck brands like Freightliner, International, Paccar, Volvo, Peterbilt, Kenworth, Mack, and Western Star. Our expertise extends to RV brands such as Airstream, Dutchmen RV, Fleetwood RV, Forest River, Jayco, Keystone, Monaco RV, Newmar, and Winnebago, among others. For automotive brands, we service Infiniti, Honda, Nissan, Ford, Mercedes Benz, BMW, Audi, Lexus, Maserati, and Tesla.

9. Community Trust and Dealer Approval

Simi Center has been a trusted community fixture for over four decades. We serve a wide array of clientele, from UPS fleets to local dealerships and their fleets. Our approval from dealers and insurance partners speaks volumes about the quality and reliability of our services.

10. Convenient Location and Additional Services

Located in Simi Valley, California, we are easily accessible for all your repair needs. We also offer additional services such as a free RV dump station with any repair service and are an authorized center for Morgan and Superior boxed parts. These parts can prolong the life of your vehicle and reduce the cost of ownership.

Our Repair Services in Detail

RV Repair

At Simi Center, we are trained RV restoration specialists. Our services cover complete interior and exterior repairs and restoration. Whether it’s collision damage or routine maintenance, our team ensures your RV is road-ready.

Semi-Truck Repair

We provide semi-truck repair services on most major diesel truck brands, tractor-trailer systems, and engines. Our trusted expertise ensures that your semi-truck is back on the road quickly and safely.

Commercial Truck Repair

As the leading and most affordable commercial mobile truck repair shop in Simi Valley, we cater to all commercial truck repair needs. Our services are designed to keep your business running smoothly.

Fleet Repair

Understanding the unique needs of fleet management, we offer customized service plans for your fleet vehicles. Our fleet repair services are reliable and efficient, minimizing downtime and maximizing productivity.

Automotive Repair

From dent repair to auto glass repair and painting, our automotive repair services are comprehensive. We strive to have you back driving your vehicle as quickly as possible without compromising on quality.

Diesel Truck Repair

Specializing in Ford, Chevy, and Dodge/RAM diesel truck repair and maintenance, our team ensures that your diesel truck is performing at its best. We use high-quality parts and advanced diagnostic tools for all repairs.

RV Maintenance Service

Roof repairs and damage assessments are critical for RV longevity. We offer free RV roof leak inspections to determine your RV roof repair or replacement needs, ensuring your RV is protected against the elements.

RV Solar Repairs

RV solar panel systems are becoming increasingly popular for their cost-effectiveness and sustainability. Our experts can customize a solar system for your specific RV needs, enhancing your off-grid capabilities.

RV & Truck Wash & Detail

Our wash and detail services cover tractors, trailers, tankers, buses, RVs, and autos. We use top-of-the-line cleaning products and techniques to ensure your vehicle looks its best inside and out.

RV Dump Station

We provide a free RV dump station with any repair service, making it convenient for you to maintain your RV’s sanitation needs without any hassle.

RV & Truck Accessory Installation

We are a premier center for RV and truck accessories installation. Whether you need custom parts or standard installations, we ensure that your vehicle is equipped with the best accessories for performance and comfort.

Morgan & Supreme Corp Boxed Parts

As an authorized center for Morgan and Superior boxed parts, we offer high-quality parts that extend the life of your vehicle and reduce the overall cost of ownership. These parts are designed to meet the highest standards of durability and performance.

Our Process

Free Estimate

Depending on the severity of the damages, it will take between 10 – 30 minutes to provide you with a free estimate. This quick and transparent process ensures you are fully informed about the repair costs and timeframes.

Insurance Claims

Navigating insurance claims can be daunting, but our team is here to help. We assist you in taking the necessary steps to process your claim and get rebates on the deductible, making the entire process seamless and stress-free.

Vehicle Repair

The repair process can take from a few days to a few weeks, depending on the damages and the type of claim. We use only original and manufacturer-certified parts to ensure the highest quality repairs.

Wash & Detail

Our professional detailing services include 100% hand car washes, high-performance detailing, interior and exterior polishing, and paint restoration. We use top-of-the-line cleaning products to ensure your vehicle looks as good as new.

Warranty Repair

We stand behind our promise to fix defects or malfunctions. Our warranty covers any repairs or part replacements during the warranty period, providing you with peace of mind and assurance of our commitment to quality.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What types of vehicles do you repair at Simi Center?

At Simi Center, we repair a wide range of vehicles including RVs, semi-trucks, trailers, commercial trucks, diesel trucks, fleet vehicles, and personal automobiles. Our technicians are certified and experienced in handling various makes and models, ensuring top-quality service for every vehicle.

2. Do you offer any warranties on your repair services?

Yes, we stand behind our work with a lifetime warranty. This warranty covers any defects or malfunctions that occur due to our repair services. We use only original and manufacturer-certified parts to ensure the highest quality and longevity of our repairs.

3. What brands of trucks and RVs do you specialize in?

We specialize in a wide array of truck and RV brands. For trucks, we work with brands such as Freightliner, International, Paccar, Volvo, Peterbilt, Kenworth, Mack, and Western Star. For RVs, we handle brands including Airstream, Dutchmen RV, Fleetwood RV, Forest River, Jayco, Keystone, Monaco RV, Newmar, and Winnebago, among others.

4. How long have you been in business?

Simi Center has been proudly serving the Simi Valley community since 1979. Our decades of experience have equipped us with the knowledge and skills to handle any repair job with confidence and precision.

5. What is the process for getting a free estimate?

Getting a free estimate at Simi Center is simple and quick. Depending on the severity of the damages, it takes between 10 to 30 minutes to provide you with an accurate estimate. This transparency ensures that you are fully informed about the cost and timeframe of the repairs.

6. Do you assist with insurance claims?

Yes, we assist with insurance claims. Our team helps you navigate the necessary steps to process your claim and obtain rebates on the deductible. This support ensures that your experience is as stress-free as possible.

7. What additional services do you offer besides repairs?

In addition to repair services, we offer a variety of additional services including:

RV & Truck Wash & Detail: Professional detailing and hand car washes using high-performance cleaning products.

RV Dump Station: Free RV dump station with any repair service.

RV & Truck Accessory Installation: Installation of custom and standard accessories.

Morgan & Supreme Corp Boxed Parts: Authorized center for high-quality boxed parts that extend the life of your vehicle.

8. What makes Simi Center different from other repair shops?

Several factors set Simi Center apart from other repair shops:

Comprehensive Range of Services: We offer a wide array of services for various vehicle types.

Decades of Experience: With over four decades in the industry, we have the expertise to handle any repair.

Certified Technicians: Our team consists of certified and highly qualified technicians.

Customer-Centric Approach: Exceptional customer service and assistance with insurance claims.

Quality Control and Warranty: We use original parts and offer a lifetime warranty on our repairs.

State-of-the-Art Facilities: Equipped with the latest tools and technology to provide top-notch service.

9. Can you customize services for fleet vehicles?

Yes, we specialize in creating customized service plans for fleet vehicles. Understanding the unique needs of fleet management, we offer tailored maintenance and repair services to ensure your fleet operates smoothly and efficiently.

10. Do you offer RV maintenance services?

Absolutely, we provide expert RV maintenance services, including roof repairs and damage assessments. We offer free RV roof leak inspections to determine if your RV needs roof repairs or replacements, ensuring your RV remains in top condition.

11. Can you install solar systems on RVs?

Yes, we can install RV solar panel systems that are customized to your specific needs. Our experts will help you choose and install the right solar system to enhance your RV’s off-grid capabilities, making your travels more sustainable and cost-effective.

12. What types of automotive repairs do you offer?

We offer a comprehensive range of automotive repair services, including dent repair, auto glass repair, painting, and more. Our goal is to have you back driving your vehicle as quickly as possible while maintaining high-quality standards.

13. What is included in your wash and detail services?

Our wash and detail services cover a variety of vehicles, including tractors, trailers, tankers, buses, RVs, and autos. We offer 100% hand car washes, high-performance detailing, interior and exterior polishing, and paint restoration using top-of-the-line cleaning products.

14. Are you affiliated with any insurance or dealer partners?

Yes, we are affiliated with multiple insurance partners and approved by various dealers. This affiliation highlights our commitment to quality and reliability, ensuring that our services meet the highest industry standards.

15. What is the advantage of using Morgan & Supreme Corp boxed parts?

Morgan & Supreme Corp boxed parts are designed to extend the life of your vehicle and reduce the overall cost of ownership. As an authorized center, we provide these high-quality parts that meet stringent durability and performance standards.

Conclusion

Since 1979, Simi Center has been the go-to repair center for RVs, semi-trucks, trailers, and automotive repairs in Simi Valley, California. Our comprehensive range of services, experienced technicians, exceptional customer service, and commitment to quality make us the best in the business. Whether you need a minor repair or a major overhaul, you can trust Simi Center to get the job done right. Visit us today and experience the difference that over four decades of expertise can make.

[heresyourjetpack]

A Complete Guideline To Buying Heavy-Duty Truck Components Online

Purchasing heavy-duty truck components online might feel like an intimidating task, but it doesn't possess to be actually. As a matter of fact, purchasing vehicle components online can easily be a hassle-free and cost-effective method to maintain your heavy-duty motor vehicle running properly. Along with many alternatives offered, it could be frustrating to recognize where to begin. In this blog, we'll offer you with an extensive overview to buying sturdy truck parts online.

Overview For Purchasing Heavy-Duty Truck Components Online

There are actually a number of aspects to consider when buying strong truck parts online. By adhering to these measures, you can ensure that you're making the most ideal decision for your car and budget plan.

Determine the Parts You Required

Before you start going to online establishments, it's vital to recognize the parts you need to have. Start through identifying which component is actually inducing the concern with your sturdy vehicle. If you're unsure, it's absolute best to take your vehicle to an auto mechanic that may assist you identify the issue and also which parts need to have replacement.

The moment you understand which components require substituting, create a listing of all of them, and search primarily for those components. Stay away from visiting webpages and pages of truck components, which may be difficult and could lead you to make the wrong acquisition. If you hunt for western star truck parts online, check out buyparts.online for receiving your items.

Investigation and also Match Up Online Shops

As soon as you have a list of the parts you need to have, it is actually time to research as well as review on-line establishments. Not all on the web retail stores that offer strong vehicle parts are actually developed equivalent. Seek on-line stores that concentrate on durable vehicle components and also possess a broad variety of parts that will certainly fulfill your needs.

It's also essential to review costs from various online retail stores. Do not simply go for the most cost effective option, however look at elements like shipping expenses, delivery time, as well as the establishment's track record. Seek customer reviews from other clients to observe what their experience has felt like.

Check if the Outlet Provides Service Warranty and Return Policy

When obtaining sturdy truck parts online, it's essential to check if the shop supplies a guarantee and return policy. Ensure to go through the warranty and return plan extensively before purchasing. Make certain that the service warranty deals with the part you are actually purchasing and also the period of the guarantee.

If the online establishment does not give a guarantee, it's absolute best to look at acquiring from an additional establishment that performs. Also, it is actually vital to understand the return policy in the event the component doesn't fit your truck or even has been damaged during freight.

Don't Compromise Quality for Price

It is actually alluring to opt for the most affordable possibility when buying strong truck components online, but this may cause bigger concerns down the line. More affordable parts might not be actually of the very same quality as a lot more expensive parts as well as can fail too soon, triggering even more costs in the end.

When purchasing heavy-duty truck parts online, it's absolute best to go with quality over cost. Seek brand names and also components that are well-reviewed and also possess a record of quality and also stability. Buying high-grade parts can save you money in the future as well as prolong the lifestyle of your sturdy vehicle. People who look for buy sterling parts online, buyparts.online website aids a whole lot.

Speak with an Auto mechanics

Whether you are actually uncertain which part to acquire or even need to have assist with the setup, it's absolute best to talk to a mechanic. An auto mechanic is going to have experience as well as competence with heavy-duty vehicle parts and also can aid you create an educated choice when buying parts online.

An auto mechanic can also make certain that the component you purchase is actually the best suitable for your truck as well as is actually put in properly. This can easily spare you time as well as money and also assist you prevent any sort of prospective protection dangers.

Purchasing sturdy vehicle parts online could be a hassle-free and affordable option if performed correctly. When purchasing durable truck components online, it is very important to determine the parts you need to have, research study as well as compare on the internet establishments, check out if the store supplies a service warranty and return policy, certainly not sacrifice quality for expense, and also talk to a mechanic. Through observing these suggestions, you can easily guarantee that you're acquiring the best components for your vehicle, and also they'll be set up correctly, maintaining your durable automobile operating perfectly.