Went for a shakedown cruise today, wandering up from Phoenix to the top of
Mingus Mtn. (above 7000 ft.), where we did some scrubbing and checking of
this and that in nice cool air.  Got back to Phx around 4pm, with the
temperature around 112 degrees.  Filled up at Costco to check trip mileage
(17.8, which kinda sucks), turned the key and had super slow starter motor
for a couple seconds, then normal and fired right up.

Several questions:
This trip is the first time I've used the AC in about 15 years, and the
frist time I've used with the 2.1L engine; how much should I expect the A/C
cut into fuel economy?  I drove about normal speed (65 - 75) for most of the
trip; this usually yields just shy of 20 mpg.

Starter issue - I've replaced the battery to starter wire and the the
alternator to starter wire with 2ga.  The starter was recently rebuilt, the
engine normally turns easily.  I have NOT replaced the starter ground
connection, and have not inspected that wire.  This slow starter (Uerh -
uerh) was the reason I replaced the wiring, and since then, it has turned
quite quickly and starter right up every time.  I'd imagine the heat had
some effect, and I certainly should take a close look at that battery ground
wire.  Any other thoughts?

Thanks in advance,

Karl Wolz