The general takes command

Two of the Big Three automakers feel the pinch of the economic slowdown while the biggest posts record profits for the second quarter. Chrysler Corp.'s profits plummet 85.9% to $135 million vs. year-ago's $956 million. Ford Motor Co. posts its third best second quarter ever -- $1.57 billion in earnings -- but still fell behind the prior year's record of $1.71 billion. General Motors Corp., with stronger margins both in North America and Europe, comes in with a surprising 18% gain to a record $2.27 billion, suggesting the General's finally on the comeback trail and that its efficiency moves are beginning to take hold.