The wheels came off

Posted by ESC October 21, 2007In reply to The wheels came off posted by Johnny on October 21, 2007

What does "when the wheels came off" mean, and from where did it originate?

It means the wheels came off and the vehicle, etc., has come to a full stop. Reminds me of:

"You've Been A Good Old Wagon But You've Done Broke Down" -- Ben Harney (1871-1938). www.loc.gov/folklife/Gordon/sideBbandB4.html