car buyers eager to get big federal rebates

Car buyers eager to get big federal rebates.....I

"It is happening already. Customers are asking new-car dealers about getting as much as $4,500 for their old gas-guzzlers.

The new incentive, popularly known as "Cash for Clunkers," took effect Wednesday.

But it will be weeks before anyone knows the fine print of the federal program, such as how dealers register with the government for reimbursement of the rebates, or when and how salvage yards should process old vehicles into scrap.

To get the credit, the gas-guzzler has to be taken off the road and either destroyed or broken up for parts.

Consumers, car dealers and salvage-yard operators who want to participate in the program said they have plenty of questions while they wait for detailed guidelines due July 23 from the Transportation Department.... Car Buyers