I think the point is, we used to do it because we had to, but if you don't have to, why would you? As an electrician I used to work live far more often than was needed because it's how the trade was back then, but no way would I do it now. Sentimental bravado doesn't justify the risk of getting squashed into the tarmac, changing a wheel to prove what exactly - that you are a real man? "He was a great bloke - used to do all his own DIY"........RIP......
You could look at it another way. Your not happy to do it yourself but are happy for someone else to put themselves in danger to do it for you. Personally I would try and get to as safe a area as I could and if I had the tools with me do it myself or use one of the emergency phones to get the highway’s people out to offer me some protection. It comes down to what you are happy to do depending on your skill level and what risks you’re willing to take
If you have a blow out you are pretty stuffed and unlikely to get to anywhere deemed safe? A layby, or services?, so best to let a breakdown van with flashing beacon light and hazards park behind you as a physical barrier and get the wheel changed in a fraction of the time it would take otherwise.
I just think that while I CAN do it, I will, as one day, there won’t be a time I’ll be able to. I guess I just don’t like to rely on people, if I can do something myself. I’ve had to do more dangerous things than change a wheel by the side of a busy road…
I'm with GEM too ! . Been with them for as long as i can remember, very good service and a good magazine.
