Trip complete with no casualties! The only glitch I had was a little
overheating. The car (80 Spit w/ electric fan) idles fine at mid scale
on the temp guage but sustained highway speeds causes it to creep up to
above 3/4 depending on how hard I am running. It was mid 80's in AL
though when I had the most trouble. I stopped a few times along the way
to flush the cooling system - several times, there was a lot of rust. I
also put a new radiator cap on and tried both with & without a thermostat
(certainly don't want to kick that debate off again but I am a member of
the thermodynamic group that does not believe in the too fast flow
theory!)
Once I got into VA I hopped off I-81 and tried the Blue Ridge Parkway -
what a blast! The only problem was I couldn't enjoy the full view as it
was dark much of the time and very foggy. I logged a good bit of time at
20 mph. I must have seen at least 2 dozen deer.
I think I will have the radiator rodded before the Spring.
Thanks again for all that subjected themselves to a potential trouble
call along the route - glad I didn't have to use it... Andy, is VTR
planning to update their assistance book? If not I would think we could
develop an excellent product from this list.
Such a location & phone list could save many from a ruined trip.
Since I had my tools and emergency kit with me I even had the opportunity
to help a few folks along the side of the road. I changed a tire for a
lady with three screaming kids, taped up a split radiator hose for an
older couple (I had a jug of water in the trunk), and felt sorry for a
teen ager whose motor sounded like it had a blacksmith inside hammering
away.
At least I have my car back to be worked on.
Matt Barre
|