I think threads with no posts should be locked after ~2 1/2 months. OP can still reply and make a new post, which would unlock the thread. There might be a mod for VBulletin as I've seen it on a few forums
I think a warning message that pops up when you try to post in a thread that's older than ~2 1/2 months would be enough to deter most. Thread locking might get complicated.
You never know... I believe that's in place over on the RoR forums, and they still get bumps almost daily (maybe less now due to its decreasing popularity).
I think there needs to be harsh punishments because apparently half can't even read the message that pops up saying your bumping a thread then tells you how old the last post was like 395 days, or something like that but they Can NOT read at all so punishments however should be a little bit harsher. 1st time: Warning and listen carefully 2nd Offender: 1 week ban, 3rd offender: Seriously listen 4th Offender Good Bye.
No, as the thread can still be relevant. If you search and the topic fits, you should reply. 'Bumping' of old threads is allowed if the reply is valid.
Well I guess EVERYONE should be looking at the post dates in a perfect world. Oh well, it was worth a try. Thanks for chiming in.