Auto Almanac

Drawing Board

HCD 14 Genesis concept: This macho show car is how Hyundai envisions its next-generation Genesis and Equus sedans. The coupelike styling, a direction that Hyundai still prefers, is offset by the massive grille, cutesy headlights and a general hunkered-down appearance. Expect the same 429-horsepower V-8 found in the current Equus to return along with a possible hybrid option when the car launches for 2015.

What’s up, auto doc?

Consider that because your vehicle’s suspension travels up and down, there needs to be bushings to cushion the parts that connect the chassis to the control arms, anti-roll bars and other assorted “underpinnings.” Usually made from rubber (or a synthetic rubber), they’re soft so as to keep things quiet and smooth, but at the sacrifice of permanent durability. Rough roads, extreme temperatures and even a lack of use means that you’ll be prematurely replacing at least some bushings during your time as owner.

When you begin to hear clicking and rattling from below and in front, the odds are that there are worn bushings that need replacing. Lest you think you can let it go for a while, that rattling is actual metal-on-metal contact, an acute warning sign. Left on its own, the result is wear, fatigue and, ultimately, parts failure, all of which will cost you plenty more than putting in new bushings that keep the parts out of contact.

At the time, you could ask about upgrades in bushing material to enhance longevity and chassis responsiveness.

Auto Trivia

n From 1963-’99, Volvo vehicles destined for the North American market were assembled in Dartmouth, Nova Scotia, Canada.

n Famed aviator Eddie Rickenbacker operated his own car company from 1922-’27. His vehicles were reportedly the first to feature four-wheel brakes and tempered safety glass.

Who am I?

1. You could call him an acting racer, or a racing actor. Both work just fine.

2. For decades, women have swooned over his smile and his blue eyes.

3. In 1968, he accepted the leading role in the movie “Winning.”

4. He also won several racing events and championships.

5. He even partnered with Carl Hass to form his own open-wheeled race team that employed such greats as Mario Andretti and Nigel Mansell.

Still stumped?

With hints like that, how could you not have guessed that it’s Paul Newman. After a long career as a racing actor, Newman died in 2008.

eBay watch

1972 Chevrolet Monte Carlo, sold, $10,000: While similarly sized Chevrolet Chevelles (especially SS versions) are highly sought by collectors, Monte Carlos receive less respect, and sell for less as a result. This particular car has its original 350-cubic-inch V-8 and three-speed automatic transmission, but little in the way of options. However, the price paid for this clean classic was more than fair. Visit www.ebaymotors.com.

Top Gear

Michelin Heavy Duty Tire Rack, about $160, local Michelin dealers or online at Hyloft/Diamond Storage Concepts, www.hyloft.com: To accommodate a variety of tire widths, this steel assembly’s telescoping horizontal support bars can be adjusted 34 to 60 inches while supporting as much as 400 pounds (with proper wall mounting). The three telescoping bars also can be relocated in the side frames to help accommodate tires as large as 28½ inches in height.