Driving to work this morning, I found myself at a traffic light behind a (probably) 20-year old Jeep Cherokee.
As I'm waiting for the light to change, I started to look over the old girl. She's got one of those off-road roof rack baskets with a full-size spare in it, and a big red fuel tank. The body is dark green, and the paint has been applied via rattle can - and applied whimsically in places. I can see overspray on the license plate and a few other places. There's a cargo strap wrapped around the tailgate, and it's attached to the rear set of side door handles - presumably holding the tailgate closed. The wheels are a bit oversized, and the suspension's been lifted a few inches.
All that said - it's idling nicely...has a good exhaust note.
When the light changes, a pretty good amount of smoke emerges from the vehicle. My first thought is; well - it's an old Jeep...probably has some formidable ring wear and is burning some oil. But then the smell of the smoke makes it's way through the vents of my trusty Crown Vic, and I realize it's running rich - because I also smell the distinctive odor of excessive fuel burning. The amount of smoke producing this combination smell isn't overwhelming - but certainly noticeable...especially when trying to make it up a large hill and the driver gives it more throttle.
But that's when the truth hits me: I like that smell.
