Setting a new trend!

[Bill Howell]

Notice: SEMA is more than just show cars this year!

OK, that should set the stage. Brian Finch, Yancy Johns and myself are driving our cars to SEMA this year. I can not share all the details yet, but we are driving from Tennessee, all cars will be in the SEMA show, and all will do the Optima Battery Challenge. There will be magazine coverage on this "Ultimate Roadtrip", maybe more than one!
We would love others to join in the trip, especially if you have the nads to actually drive your car, but we will let trailer queens in too. We will be traveling mostly on I-40 so if you would like to join in, just let us know either in this thread or pm.
This should be one fun trip, with lots of stories to tell afterwards. We all brag about our "Protouring" cars, who else will step up and prove they own one?

[wayne70]

Man this would be a real road trip to do.I wish business was better this year, and with my daughter getting married there is no fund's left to feed the chevelle for a trip like this. You guy's have a great trip.

[Mr.VENGEANCE]

thats awesome.

[oestek]

It's a great idea, Bill. I think Posie, Coker, and a few others did this last year when they drove hot rods across to the show, and didn't even wash them when they were on display inside. They called it the "Driven Dirty" tour.

You're 100% correct, the best way to show off a PT car is to drive the snot out of it!

See you on the road!

[fletcherscustoms]

We're interested! Just will all depend on the amount of time we get on Ty's car prior to SEMA!!
Even though I fear the worst happening on the way out, it's just my luck!

[Finch]

It's a great idea, Bill. I think Posie, Coker, and a few others did this last year when they drove hot rods across to the show, and didn't even wash them when they were on display inside. They called it the "Driven Dirty" tour.

You're 100% correct, the best way to show off a PT car is to drive the snot out of it!

See you on the road!


I guess this will be the Pro-Dirty tour then.

[Finch]

We're interested! Just will all depend on the amount of time we get on Ty's car prior to SEMA!!
Even though I fear the worst happening on the way out, it's just my luck!


Bill and I are both in the same boat as the cars will be semi fresh when we head out. Mine is still in fab stage and should see its first road miles at RTTH IV.

The adventure is the best part so welcome all who dare to enter.

[jknight16]

Just let me know which day you're coming through Arizona and I may meet up with the convoy for a drive up to Vegas.

[JEFFTATE]

Awesome !!
I wish I had a SEMA-quality car and about two weeks of vacation.
I'd do it ..

[Damn True]

There must be a man named "Sanchez" involved.

[hechtrod]

That's a WIN of an idea. Pro-Dirty, I dig that one! Can't wait!

[Chevrolaine]

Driven?? You mean the way they were meant to be? :idea:
That's awesome, can't wait for the stories!

[6'9"Witha69]

There must be a man named "Sanchez" involved.
:lmao: I just spit water.

[Bill Howell]

It's a great idea, Bill. I think Posie, Coker, and a few others did this last year when they drove hot rods across to the show, and didn't even wash them when they were on display inside. They called it the "Driven Dirty" tour.

You're 100% correct, the best way to show off a PT car is to drive the snot out of it!

See you on the road!

Bret was telling me about this a couple weeks ago. It has to be a blast to just pull up at the convention center and pull on in. I like the idea of not even washing the cars, but I bet ours will need a bath after the 2000 mile trip.

[shmoov69]

Tell me more... Would mine be sitting inside SEMA or out in the hotel parking lot after we got there?? How "nice" do they have to be?
I'm interested.......with EITHER car!!

[Bill Howell]

Tell me more... Would mine be sitting inside SEMA or out in the hotel parking lot after we got there?? How "nice" do they have to be?
I'm interested.......with EITHER car!!

Well,
Getting into SEMA is tough. I don't know where my car will be, or whose booth yet, but I plan on getting it somewhere on the property between now and then. The Optima challenge is invitation also, but they have not selected all the cars yet, as I understand it. Brian got in by winning a goodguys autocross, Yancy's car is Bowler Transmission's sponsorship car. Mine is representing this forum. SEMA cars are all over the board. While most are pretty, I would hate to guess how many actually run, much less have 50 or more miles on them. None of our cars are show cars, but hopefully worthy of a spot anyway, especially considering they are REAL CARS.

[Ron S]

What are the dates your talking about,that would almost be enough to make me put side glass in the Mustang.LOL. Ron

[Bill Howell]

We have not nailed down date yet, but we will leave Pigeon Forge sometime Around October 30th I am guessing. Give ourselves about 3 days to get to Vegas, putting us there about Monday, Nov.2nd?
Then ease home after Optima Challenge the following weekend.

[CptKlutz]

3 thumbs up! P/Ts are for driving! Remember to post lots of :kewlpics: and also the "winning" speeding ticket!

[novaderrik]

isn't there already some kind of an obscure event kind of like this- called "Power Tour" or something like that, i think. and instead of one indoor car show at the end, there are like 5 big outdoor cars shows along the way?

[shmoov69]

Well,
Getting into SEMA is tough. I don't know where my car will be, or whose booth yet, but I plan on getting it somewhere on the property between now and then. The Optima challenge is invitation also, but they have not selected all the cars yet, as I understand it. Brian got in by winning a goodguys autocross, Yancy's car is Bowler Transmission's sponsorship car. Mine is representing this forum. SEMA cars are all over the board. While most are pretty, I would hate to guess how many actually run, much less have 50 or more miles on them. None of our cars are show cars, but hopefully worthy of a spot anyway, especially considering they are REAL CARS.
Sooo, the "invite" is not really an invite to the show or to the comptetion? More like an invite to come an hang with us? Correct? Just trying to figure out what is actually happening and "open".
Thanks.

[Bill Howell]

My invite is for anyone and everyone that will to come cruise across the country with us. Hopefully some with and some without invitations to SEMA and OPTIMA will join in. The cruise is different from those other two events, they just happen to be the destination. Sorry for any confusion.

[Bill Howell]

isn't there already some kind of an obscure event kind of like this- called "Power Tour" or something like that, i think. and instead of one indoor car show at the end, there are like 5 big outdoor cars shows along the way?

Not really another Power Tour, been there done that twice.
This is just a cruise across country with friends, no sponsors or circus every night, just fun road trip that happens to end in Vegas a day or two before SEMA.

[shmoov69]

My invite is for anyone and everyone that will to come cruise across the country with us. Hopefully some with and some without invitations to SEMA and OPTIMA will join in. The cruise is different from those other two events, they just happen to be the destination. Sorry for any confusion.
Ok, that makes a bit more sense now. From your first post, I thought it was an "invite" to SEMA and or the challenge. All while cruising across the country.
Well, sounds like a blast and all, but without the other two (at least one of) it's just another fun cruise to me. :)

Keep me updated if something changes! I would be more interested in doing it then, and paying out the cash to take off and spend that much time away from work, spending money!

Thanks!

[YancyJohns]

If you can borrow, steal or lie your way into SEMA, it's worth it! To me, it's one of the greatest carshows/Product Events you can go too. Second, the Optima Challenge, any one can come and watch. Last year I didn't have a car, but I went to support and watch an awesome event. I believe 100 or so spectators showed up last year. So come out if you can, it's all about driving our cars w/ friends and having a great time!

[Steve1968LS2]

My invite is for anyone and everyone that will to come cruise across the country with us. Hopefully some with and some without invitations to SEMA and OPTIMA will join in. The cruise is different from those other two events, they just happen to be the destination. Sorry for any confusion.

I will be coming from the other direction.. of course my distance is considerably shorter! lol

Sound super cool Bill.. take lots of pics!

[Damn True]

I will be coming from the other direction.. of course my distance is considerably shorter! lol

Sound super cool Bill.. take lots of pics!

Meet them in Kansas.

[Yelcamino]

So, if a person were to join in on this, I understand you won't be able to compete, but would you be able to at least get a pass into SEMA to check out the show?

[Bill Howell]

So, if a person were to join in on this, I understand you won't be able to compete, but would you be able to at least get a pass into SEMA to check out the show?

If you will commit to the road trip somehow, someway, we will get you into SEMA.:smoke:

[Larry Callahan]

I will be coming from the other direction.. of course my distance is considerably shorter! lol

Sound super cool Bill.. take lots of pics!


Depending on when you drive up I may follow you in MotiV8r.

[formula]

if I had a SEMA spot I could justify it--heck, I could even call it research for my automotive engineering degree--but I highly doubt my car would be sema-level, even if it is finished in time....

sure would be fun, though. good on you guys for doing it.

[OLDFLM]

SEMA is truly a once in a lifetime opportunity for me and I am soooooo hoping we can add this road trip to the lifelong memories and friendships that will be and have been made along the way!!!

Afterall it's all about the journey anyway right... :drive:

[Yelcamino]

If you will commit to the road trip somehow, someway, we will get you into SEMA.:smoke:

Cool. I'm going to keep an eye on this thread, maybe I can fit it into my plans. I would so love to go to SEMA! The road trip would be awesome too!

[1offwizard]

Can't wait to here more details on this. Might join up in Oklahoma if my camaro is ready.

[ProdigyCustoms]

if I had a SEMA spot I could justify it--heck, I could even call it research for my automotive engineering degree--but I highly doubt my car would be sema-level, even if it is finished in time....

sure would be fun, though. good on you guys for doing it.

You just give me the word yyou want to go and I will handle the rest.

[wayne70]

Maybe able to pull this trip off after all. My wife want's to go back to Grand canyon and i had a call from my son that he will be going to SEMA. Let us know when you have more info. on dates and the
motel's you are staying at in Vegas.
:idea:

[Samckitt]

You just give me the word yyou want to go and I will handle the rest.


I want to go. LOL

[PT Sportwagon]

I think this would be 1000 times better than the trailer tour oh I mean power tour. Like was said no big names telling you what to do, no circus just driving cars built to be driven. I may join if you keep this going in a couple years. mine is far from show quality. but it does run and drive.

Tim

[BuddyP]

Notice: SEMA is more than just show cars this year!

OK, that should set the stage. Brian Finch, Yancy Johns and myself are driving our cars to SEMA this year. I can not share all the details yet, but we are driving from Tennessee, all cars will be in the SEMA show, and all will do the Optima Battery Challenge. There will be magazine coverage on this "Ultimate Roadtrip", maybe more than one!
We would love others to join in the trip, especially if you have the nads to actually drive your car, but we will let trailer queens in too. We will be traveling mostly on I-40 so if you would like to join in, just let us know either in this thread or pm.
This should be one fun trip, with lots of stories to tell afterwards. We all brag about our "Protouring" cars, who else will step up and prove they own one?
I'd be all for this!!!..... If my car was done :(

Who wants to help me finish my car? ;-D

[Finch]

Lets get a list of who is joining us on the trip.


So far I know of the following

Myself
Bill
Mark
Yancy
Shafi Keisler
Tom McBride

Bull Run Chevelle?



Who else is willing to join in? We are taking I40 all the way across so we can map out a meeting point and time to those who are interested.

[Bill Howell]

No bull run car, it did not get into the show.

Tazz.(Albert).. the guy at RTTHs from Canada may meet us along the way if all goes well.

[Finch]

I hope Albert can make it, They were a nice bunch.....

[DarkBuddha]

Kinda tempting, but driving all that way and not being able to get into SEMA would suck! I suppose there is the rest of Vegas to enjoy though...

[Scott Parkhurst]

We're going too. We have to trailer out of MN (no heater, or SNOW TIRES fer cryin' out loud) but once we get to more reasonable climate, we'd be willing to unload and roll with ya'll. We have to check in at SEMA on Monday AM, so we'll be rolling into Vegas early Sunday. We plan to clean it up for the show- that's what Sunday is for.

My car looks bad enough already. No need to have it be filthy too.

If we can coordinate where we'll be on I40, we should be able to caravan out with ya. We're leaving Friday AM from MN, and heading South.

[Larry Callahan]

Anyone know how many cars might roll in together?

[Steve1968LS2]

If you guys are rolling in to Vegas on Sunday morn I would be willing to drive past Vegas a couple of hundred miles and roll into town with you. I just need to be there Sunday afternoon to move into the show.

Thoughts? Do you have a route or ETA yet?

[trapin]

Wait...how can all this be possible Bill?

....I thought Pro-Touring was dead.

Hold on...hold on....somebody bring me up to speed here. Kinda confused right now.

[Bill Howell]

Scott, we would love to have you join us. We will be leaving here earlier Friday morning and we go west on I-40 til we get to Kingsman, Az.
About 1800 miles on I-40, then on into Vegas. We will get to Vegas sometime Sunday, I figure noon.

Larry looks like Brian, Yancy, Shafi Keisler and myself for sure all the way.

Come on over Steve, met us in Kingsman, Az. We will stop at Hoover Dam for photos for sure, neat place for pictures.

[Steve1968LS2]

Scott, we would love to have you join us. We will be leaving here earlier Friday morning and we go west on I-40 til we get to Kingsman, Az.
About 1800 miles on I-40, then on into Vegas. We will get to Vegas sometime Sunday, I figure noon.

Larry looks like Brian, Yancy, Shafi Keisler and myself for sure all the way.

Come on over Steve, met us in Kingsman, Az. We will stop at Hoover Dam for photos for sure, neat place for pictures.

Hmmm.. maybe we could meet at the Damn.. it's "sorta" on the way.. I would need to know a meet up time to see if it will work with the time Optima wants me at SEMA.

Would be cool to have a big group rolling into town.

[Scott Parkhurst]

Bill-

Get me your cell number and we'll try and connect on the road. I think you'll be ahead of us a bit, but we should be able to work this out.

[Bill Howell]

eight six five 850 eight two two eight

[tazzz25906112]

No bull run car, it did not get into the show.

Tazz.(Albert).. the guy at RTTHs from Canada may meet us along the way if all goes well.


Bill I'm in for this one :6gears:,,,,,the guys and I are getting all over the Formula Monday morning,,,, I plan to do the full run from your place to SEMA and back all things equal...

BTW Ron I'm waiting to hear if a buddy from Toronto is joining me on the run,,,, if not your welcome to join me in my car if your not up and running by then.....

[tazzz25906112]

I hope Albert can make it, They were a nice bunch.....

Thanks Brian it was really great meeting you too,,,I'm in on the road trip as stated above.....

That Mustang of yours is sweet,,,, you know between you guys and Ron's Blue car (all be it two very different builds) you could get me dreaming and scheming in Ford land one of these days LOL... (Now if my oldest son gets an eyeful of this thread there will be no living in this house) LOL... Hard core GM house and he's the lone wolf Saleen holding up the FORD flag around here LOL....

[Finch]

Thanks Brian it was really great meeting you too,,,I'm in on the road trip as stated above.....

That Mustang of yours is sweet,,,, you know between you guys and Ron's Blue car (all be it two very different builds) you could get me dreaming and scheming in Ford land one of these days LOL... (Now if my oldest son gets an eyeful of this thread there will be no living in this house) LOL... Hard core GM house and he's the lone wolf Saleen holding up the FORD flag around here LOL....


Glad to here your coming along....your overall trip will make our's look like a Sunday grocery run.

We will keep your Ford love quiet until your ready to.....um....well I guess "come out" so to speak. These kinda things are easier if you break it to your family on your own terms first.

It will be an honor to have you guys along

See you soon,

[68Formula]

Wait...how can all this be possible Bill?

....I thought Pro-Touring was dead.

Hold on...hold on....somebody bring me up to speed here. Kinda confused right now.

Think Freiburger will drive his new version of The Crusher all the way?

[Bill Howell]

Alright Albert, sounds great. This is going to be one cool trip for everyone involved. Where you going to meet us? Here? Nashville at Brian's? Just let me know.

[Damn True]

X-country trek with a bunch of bad-arse cars to SEMA then actually racing the damn things?!?!

Someone is doing a writeup and photos on this for publication right?

Get Ro to ride shotgun or something!

[tazzz25906112]

Hey Bill it's gonna be a blast buddy..... I plan to come knock'n on your door if that works for you???? Drop me a line when you get a chance and let me know what time we're heading out as I'll most likely come in a day or two ahead of heading West..

I figure it'll be fun to do the whole drive Toronto to Pigeon and Pigeon to Vegas,,,, then turn around and do it all again for good measure.

You know what they say about me and directions buddy???? "I say nice boy but his heads a little close to the ground" ROFLMAO..... (thank God for GPS)

Hey did we hear hear any more from Ron, be a blast to have him along too...

[Bill Howell]

Hey Bill it's gonna be a blast buddy..... I plan to come knock'n on your door if that works for you???? Drop me a line when you get a chance and let me know what time we're heading out as I'll most likely come in a day or two ahead of heading West..

I figure it'll be fun to do the whole drive Toronto to Pigeon and Pigeon to Vegas,,,, then turn around and do it all again for good measure.

You know what they say about me and directions buddy???? "I say nice boy but his heads a little close to the ground" ROFLMAO..... (thank God for GPS)

Hey did we hear hear any more from Ron, be a blast to have him along too...

We are leaving here Oct. 30 early that morning. Friday week. Come on down.....hehe

[BonzoHansen]

Sunday? Damn, you're rolling in before I get there. Would have been fun to watch you all roll down the strip.

[Bill Howell]

OK guys, we got great news today.
Our cars will be in the SEMA Car Corral for the Optima Challenge display. That is great news for us. However, we have to be at the convention center to put the cars on display on Sunday at 1PM. This means we are forced to move our leave date up to Thursday Oct. 29, one day earlier. We want to have plenty of time to get everything right once we get there, plus give ourselves a little time in case something goes wrong with one of the cars.

So, everyone planning to join in, please make/change your plans accordingly.

[Finch]

OK guys, we got great news today.
Our cars will be in the SEMA Car Corral for the Optima Challenge display. That is great news for us. However, we have to be at the convention center to put the cars on display on Sunday at 1PM. This means we are forced to move our leave date up to Thursday Oct. 29, one day earlier. We want to have plenty of time to get everything right once we get there, plus give ourselves a little time in case something goes wrong with one of the cars.

So, everyone planning to join in, please make/change your plans accordingly.

The 29th is my B-day so I will now get to spend it with good friends on the road doing car stuff.

Cannot think of it getting much better than that.

[Damn True]

OK guys, we got great news today.
Our cars will be in the SEMA Car Corral for the Optima Challenge display. That is great news for us. However, we have to be at the convention center to put the cars on display on Sunday at 1PM. This means we are forced to move our leave date up to Thursday Oct. 29, one day earlier. We want to have plenty of time to get everything right once we get there, plus give ourselves a little time in case something goes wrong with one of the cars.

So, everyone planning to join in, please make/change your plans accordingly.

It would be fantastic if you could get a local sign shop to make each of you a placard to place on the windshield of the car that explains why this car has 2500mi of road grime on it.

[Finch]

1 week until we head West.


The train will be leaving Bills house Thursday morning, stopping in Nashville to pick me up and then West into the sunset. Will be rolling into Vegas sometime Saturday so if anyone is on the fence about joining us speak up now and lets lock down the when and where we can meet up.

Back to the shop.....

[tazzz25906112]

Hell I'm good to go now guys LOL..... Seriously though I'll move things a day ahead and look forward to the run. The move works in my favor as the 14 day weather forecast looks pretty wet and certainly very cold (even for our traditional patterns)...

[Scott Parkhurst]

We're rolling out after work on Thursday. We'll be chasing you all the way there. I doubt we'll catch up, but we'll try...

[Bill Howell]

Our goal for the first day will be Oklahoma City, but that is a lofty goal, about 900 miles from Pigeon Forge.

[MuscleRodz]

Bill, when will you being rolling through OKC?

edit: Funny you are posting right when I am typing it. let's get together while you are in town. I will PM you

[Bill Howell]

Bill, when will you being rolling through OKC?

edit: Funny you are posting right when I am typing it. let's get together while you are in town. I will PM you

We will be getting there LATE I am sure and hitting the road early the next morning but I know that is right up the road from you. We will talk as we get closer that day, you still have my cell? Maybe a LATE dinner that night.

[LMDGUY]

this sounds like a great time.. I will just look for you guys sunday afternoon. WE have morning check in time

[Larry Callahan]

I think the Optima cars are all supposed to be placed between 1 and 4 on Sunday? I wonder if we should all hook up and drive in together?

[Bill Howell]

I wonder if we can take them dirty? haha
We will be hunting a car wash Sunday morning after the cross country trip for sure.

[tazzz25906112]

Finishing up the last of the clean up Bill,,,, see you Wed Night Pigeon Forge buddy.....

[Bill Howell]

Cool Albert, Brian and I were just talking about you. See you soon, drive safe.

[tazzz25906112]

Cool Albert, Brian and I were just talking about you. See you soon, drive safe.

Thanks Buddy I'll do my best,,, looking forward to it.

[Bill Howell]

How many miles until the first blue light encounter? Pics to follow....

[Damn True]

How many miles until the first blue light encounter? Pics to follow....

You can always use the, "Do you know who I am?" thing.

[stealth71]

Drive safe.

[Bill Howell]

Any body guess Knoxville?....a whole 35 miles:hammer:
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/10/IMG_2186-1.jpg

[Damn True]

LEO: Do you know how fast you were going sir?
BH: Well, little fella', yer the one with the gun. You tell me.
LEO: Your license and registration please sir?
BH: I think I have shoes that are older than you.
LEO: Turn around sir and place your hands on the car.
BH: Do you know who I am?

[1offwizard]

LEO: Do you know how fast you were going sir?
BH: Well, little fella', yer the one with the gun. You tell me.
LEO: Your license and registration please sir?
BH: I think I have shoes that are older than you.
LEO: Turn around sir and place your hands on the car.
BH: Do you know who I am?
LOL That's good stuff! 35 miles.........it might be a long trip!!!

[Bill Howell]

LOL, no, we were waiting on Shafi this morning and Officer Ferguson stopped to check on us. He happens to have a second gen camaro and second gen firebird so he was interested in the cars. Too bad all LEOs aren't like this guy.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/10/IMG_2189-1.jpg

[CraigMorrison]

There must be a man named "Sanchez" involved.


Bravo sir, Bravo (golf claps)

[Damn True]

Bravo sir, Bravo (golf claps)

Thanks, I'll be here all week.

Tip your waitress and try the veal.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif

[Bill Howell]

Anyone watching the weather channel tonight???? GEEZ, it is raining on us in Arkansas. So far about three hours worth, and I mean hard. Cool thing is real men drive their cars and there are four proving it right now. Down to 55mph at the moment, I guess we will get better mileage? All cars are doing fine. Charger needed 1/2 quart of oil and A/C connection repair last stop, Albert's Firebird has a loose front valance. Other than that, no carnage yet.

Funny thing, we stopped at a restaurant earlier. I went in and told them I wanted a Diablo sandwich and a Dr. Pepper and I was in a G@#$*# hurry. We were chasing Mr. Bandit and had to go.
Obviously the waitress was too young to know what I was talking about, must have never seen Smokey and the Bandit...

Ok, hammer down, motor on.....

[6'9"Witha69]

Funny thing, we stopped at a restaurant earlier. I went in and told them I wanted a Diablo sandwich and a Dr. Pepper and I was in a G@#$*# hurry. We were chasing Mr. Bandit and had to go.
Obviously the waitress was too young to know what I was talking about, must have never seen Smokey and the Bandit...

Now THAT is funny right there! Good luck and keep up with the updates.

[Damn True]

Westbound (?) and down, loaded up and truckin..............


You know....there is a resemblance:
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif


Joonyah. When we git home, remind me to slap yo mama!
~Sheriff Buford T. Justice

[6'9"Witha69]

If you come across a funeral procession, you know what needs to be said!

"If they'd have cremated the sumbitch, I'd be kickin' that Mr. Bandit's ass around the moon by now! "
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/10/Sherrif-1.jpg

[Ron911]

Bill I hope weather info helped. Ron

[6'9"Witha69]

lol, you came back with the same pic!!

www.diablosandwichandadrpepper.com

[6'9"Witha69]

Westbound (?) and down, loaded up and truckin..............


You know....there is a resemblance:
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif
"The fact that you're a sheriff is not germane to the situation"
"The damn Germans ain't got nothing to do with it!"

[Bill Howell]

Thanks Ron, it did. We are in the rain again now, but not as bad as it was earlier. Almost out of it according to what you saw. Thanks again.

As for the funeral..... we talked about that too. I was thinking more along the lines of......"Daddy, he had a lot of friends......" haha

[Damn True]

Damn I wish I was on this trip.

[formula]

Damn I wish I was on this trip.


Ditto. Who do you have to talk to to be considered for the optima event? I need to start planning for next year to try to get involved with this...

[Chevrolaine]

Cool thing is real men drive their cars and there are four proving it right now.

Ok, hammer down, motor on.....

Amen Brotha! Old guys shouldn't be allowed to have that much fun!
I shoulda went to college. :idea: LOL

[WEAVER]

lol, no, we were waiting on shafi this morning and officer ferguson stopped to check on us. He happens to have a second gen camaro and second gen firebird so he was interested in the cars. Too bad all leos aren't like this guy.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif

that is funny stuff

[oestek]

Hey Bill, we're just ahead of you in OK city tonight. Maybe we'll see you guys on the road tomorrow! Hopefully with less rain!!!

[shmoov69]

Well Bill, she may have figured it out if you said "thank you nice lady!"

And what are the requirements for the optima challeng?! How about a "vintage built" (like 10 years ago vintage!) PT car?!? LOL!!!

[MuscleRodz]

Hey Bill, we're just ahead of you in OK city tonight. Maybe we'll see you guys on the road tomorrow! Hopefully with less rain!!!
Kevin, we are all having breakfast at IHOP on Meridian around 7am if you read this in time. I will try and call you in the morning to see where yo are at.

[KEISLER]

At dinner, I said we need a name for this trip, and Bill popped out with the Ultimate Tour. I like it! :1st:

Great trip so far: the people, awesome cars and even some decent road food.

The trip got hairy when all of a sudden we were skidding all over the lane and in what appeared to be a mudslide, or trucker accident that just covered the road in mud and clay. I have more more dirt in my engine bay than some people have in a flower pot!! Very interesting to say in the least. It felt like we were 4wd driving through a mud bog.

[oestek]

We hooked up with Bill and the SEMA road trip crew on the way to Vegas. And it's true what they say, these guys are hard core. We will be posting videos periodically along the way.

EPMTVvJ6lSE

[oestek]

Look ma, no cars in the trailer!!

G7e6rsDAjyc

[oestek]

Check out Albert's 70 Trans Am, its a super clean car with one off wheels. Albert joined the cruise from Toronto Canada!
mKxxfuSK4n8d

[BADVELLE]

Very, Very Cool Guys!!!! This is what you love to see, guys/gals enjoying their cars, just plain awesome. Kevin thanks for the video's, just a bunch of good ole country boys driving x-country!!

Cheers and safe travels.

[MuscleRodz]

Here is a few still pics from this morning

[xxxturbo6]

Bill what you guy's are doing is awesome to say the least. Kevin it's great that your along side video taping the whole journey, That will be a memorable trip for sure! Keep the updates coming and everyone HAVE FUN and be carefull..

Scot W.

[nvr2fst]

You know Bill, Sema's Trend Setting award matches your thread title. Who says it has to go to a business or product!
This is the way you do a road trip, great updates and keep driving safe.

[Larry Callahan]

Oh man! I'm so jealous!

mKxxfuSK4n8

15QPB7vYtv4

6juGi4hDiQ4

dDbzedKjcKo

[Larry Callahan]

QBYX6CAu5fY

PD5zqE1Yp44

[Bill Howell]

This was last night when we had to ditch the shawl for a raincoat in Little Rock....lol
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/10/005-2.jpg

[oestek]

The trip is going well... Kelle and I were visited by a friendly Texas law man who pulled us over for following too closely to the pack of 4 sweet cars... but she talked her way out of it. Open road cruisin' in the Amarillo area now!

[Bill Howell]

The trip is going well... Kelle and I were visited by a friendly Texas law man who pulled us over for following too closely to the pack of 4 sweet cars... but she talked her way out of it. Open road cruisin' in the Amarillo area now!

Funny thing is, if he didn't like the way we were driving now, it is a good thing he wasn't following us in Oklahoma...haha
No, no speed or anything before you jump to conclusions, just some tight, close stuff for a picture. Cool stuff guys, you need to be here. Don't let another year go by, fix your car and DRIVE Baby DRIVE.
The only thing wrong with this trip is someone has got to wash all this junk before we pull into SEMA. Maybe we should do like the did the last Vanishing Point movie car, leave them dirty.....call ourselves road warriors or something.

MR V, if we had time I would love for you to design us a logo to make a sticker to put on the cars telling what we did. DRIVE-Show(SEMA)-RACE-DRIVE HOME.

Heck, anyone with talent up to something, maybe we can get something printed and on the cars.

Like this thread's title said, we ARE setting a new trend, drive the SEMA car to SEMA. After all, what better way to prove a part that have it on a REAL FRICKEN CAR, not some show queen!!!!!

[trapin]

You guys rock...all of you. Love seeing G-Machines in their element.

[Nessumsar]

This is pure excelence!

[andrewb70]

You guys be safe. Looks like everyone is having a great time. I wish I was able to join you guys!

Andrew

[Bow Tie 67]

Hey guys wish I was there, looks like a blast.

[KEISLER]

We're having dinner at Alburque New Mexico now, 12 of us, and everyone brainstormed a name for this event

DIRTY FUN SEMA RUN

The DIRTY part is not Vegas, but the damn mudslide we all slide thru last night in Little Rock Arkansas.

We are having a blast! Here's a couple pics from earlier today

Windmills in Oklahoma
Bill's quote "Obama can't wait for you to have one in your yard"
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/10/ULTIMATE_PROTOUR_WINDMILL-1.jpg

New Mexico
The police pulled Kevin and Kelle over as soon as we got back on the interstate. Speeding? NO .. she's following too close and her car (Merc) doesn't look like it fits in with the rest of us!! Hilarious! He let Kelle off.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/10/ULTIMATE_PROTOUR_NEWMEXICO-1.jpg

Another couple hundred miles and we'll be to Windslow AZ tonight.

[oestek]

This trip is a great time. Here's a quickie on Finch's Camaro:

9tGZb2sH3W4

[oestek]

And here's Mr. Keisler himself and the killer 'Kuda...

A36HieiXjrM

[oestek]

So Kelle and I had to peel off for the night, but the rest kept going. They have to be in Vegas tomorrow early afternoon, and we can't get into our room until Sunday, so here's where our coverage leaves off. But I'm sure the rest of the crew will have pics and stories to post!

Sq21DmBiXZQ

[MickMc]

The guys stopped in Albuquerque for dinner and fuel, so here are a couple of pictures.https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif

[MickMc]

Everyone before dinner at Sadie's restaurant
OK so I can't get the pictures to load.

[WEAVER]

Good job Bill,Looks like you guys are making great time.Might have to do that next year myself

[MickMc]

One more time

[MickMc]

Getting gas ready to hit the road

[MickMc]

A few more shots

[MickMc]

A few more

[MickMc]

A few more

[thedodgeboys]

Super cool guys wish I was along for the fun!

[Larry Callahan]

What a fun trip! I wish I was there.

https://www.pro-touring.com/gallery/main.php?g2_view=core.DownloadItem&g2_itemId=27462

https://www.pro-touring.com/gallery/main.php?g2_view=core.DownloadItem&g2_itemId=27465

[Vegas69]

You nailed it Bill. That car looks perfect!

[Mr.VENGEANCE]

god damn.. that is stuff that dreams are made of.

they should make a movie about this.. just with better looking actors.


ahhahahah!

[Steve1968LS2]

Where's the Fairlane?

[Larry Callahan]

It's taking the pictures. lol

[KEISLER]

This trip is great, great fun. Kinda like Hot Rod Power Tour, but at the speed of Pro-Touring.

I've never driven cross country before, so this is simply FANTASTIC!

Bill, Yancy, Mark and Danny have helped to pull together this great trip. THANK YOU GUYS!!

I brought my Sony HDV gear, and thanks to Kevin and Kelle from V8TV about 2 hours of proshot video of the trip was captured, including the photoshoot at the Route 66 museum, rolling shots of all the cars and more. So great you guys rolled with us today!

Brian Finch's neighbor is one hell of a great hand to all of us, too.

Chris Petris is riding and driving with me. If any of you remember the tranny swap we did in the '65 Corvette on 2004 Hot Rod Power Tour at the St. Louis stop at GM's big rig, that was Chris. He was the tech editor for Corvette Fever, and now working as tech editor for the Amos Automotive Enthusiast mags (Chevy, Pontiac, Mopar, Muscle Car). While we were washing the Arkansas mudslide off our cars, Chris was busy troubleshooting and fixing a sema exhibitor's rig that broke down, carrying two killer pieces for the show. Chris got them back on the road, then joined us for the photoshoot to capture shots for the upcoming magazine feature he is doing on our trip.

[TonyHuntimer]

Looks like a great time. Catching a little Americana on the way to SemaVille NV. Have fun and drive safe. See you all next week.

Thanks V8TV for the coverage on video!

:)

[formula]

wow! can't believe you guys went to the 66 museum! My crazy redneck family used to have our reunion across the street at the hotel there (apparently that was where elvis used to stay when he was in town :lmao:)

[ProdigyCustoms]

You nailed it Bill. That car looks perfect!

I do like the Bilboard!

You guys have fun, be safe and I will see you there later today.

[Bow Tie 67]

Holy Crap Albert has been driving the entire trip on R888's you have balls man. How did they do in the rain? Are they wearing down quick? Bill pas this on if Albert is not connected on the web. I

[Bill Howell]

Holy Crap Albert has been driving the entire trip on R888's you have balls man. How did they do in the rain? Are they wearing down quick? Bill pas this on if Albert is not connected on the web. I

Albert is a madman for sure, on 888s. The cool weather and rain had to help wearage, but I am sure they will be toast after this trip. He was a bit worn out the first night after six hours or more in heavy downpour. I don't know how he did it.

We are in Winslow, Arizona, looking for a corner to stand on...haha
We should be in Vegas about three this afternoon.

Thankfully Shafi hooked us all up with some waterless cleaning supplies, so we will need a cool, shady spot to get some of the road grime off the cars later today.

See everyone in a day or two at the show.

[Bill Howell]

Carnage report:
This morning all the cars were covered in Ice/frost. Brian's defroster isn't working so we had the bright idea of using a Heavy Duty inverter I have to power a hair dryer. NOTE TO SELF, 500watt inverter will not power 1850watt hair dryer. Picture to follow, but suffice it to say, we let the smoke out of the inverter.

[Bow Tie 67]

Thats funny, ask Jim Nilsen how much he liked staring at his side of the windshield on the way home from RTTH5.

Road grime, no wiper and fogged up, in heavy rain at night. At least 5 hours worth of " Hmmm are those lights comming right at us or not "

[jknight16]

How did you guys like the food at Sadies? Bit spicy for ya?

[BonzoHansen]

One more time

That is one tired looking bunch!

Looks like a great time!

[dropit69]

sounds like a great time Bill ..where in world did you hit the ice storm?..

[MuscleRodz]

Where's the Fairlane?
Bill and Yancy were splitting duties in the Charger and support truck and trailer. No Fairlane, that is another story.

[Bill Howell]

Bill and Yancy were splitting duties in the Charger and support truck and trailer. No Fairlane, that is another story.
The Fairlane's Five hours behind us, Hammered down and trying to catch up.....It got a late start....Get on it!!!!

[trapin]

So I'm curious, if the ride out to SEMA is being called the "Dirty Fun SEMA Run"....what are we calling the ride home?

[BonzoHansen]

So I'm curious, if the ride out to SEMA is being called the "Dirty Fun SEMA Run"....what are we calling the ride home?

less fun? lol

[Bow Tie 67]

less fun? lol

Lol, the ride home normally blows. But considering they are in a pro-touring pack it should be more bearable

[oestek]

We broke off the group today, and finally got a chance to fire up the laptop.

It was great cruising with you guys yesterday... Kelle and I had lots of fun and are looking forward to seeing you all at SEMA this week, and then at the Optima Challenge. We are producing the DVD for the event, so we'll see you there.

Mick, great choice on Sadie's for Mexican, but man, my belly felt like it had a bowling ball in it all night. Whoof. Still worth it, however, as it was the best burrito of the year!

Bill, sorry to hear about the smoke show in the Chally. Hopefully it's an easy fix! I look forward to shooting more of the car!

Shafi, great to hang with you, we'll see you at the event and chat more. I really want to drive the Kuda!

Chris, cool to see you again, I'll get that .zip folder of pics up when we get set up in Vegas Sunday night.

Finch - people are asking to see more of your Camaro.. we'll have to hook up and shoot a feature!

Albert, good luck with the 'Bird and the 'unusual' project we discussed at dinner... I won't let the cat out of the bag..

And to the rest of the crew, great to see you all on the road, there's more craziness to come in Vegas!

And to everyone else, join the party next year!

Today we decided to take it easy and grabbed a couple cool, although non-car related videos. American Road Trip stuff! First up is a train loaded with nothing but military equipment outside of Albuquerque... quite a sight.

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Then, a quick stop at the Grand Canyon... another site to see!

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We'll be shooting tons more SEMA video all next week. See you then!

[Ron S]

All I can say is I wish I was there. Some of the badast cars on this board, driving to Vegas (what a concept). Everytime I read this thread, my wife keeps asking why I'm cursing and saying I should be doing that. Hopefully you'll do it again next year. Have fun guys, Ron

[tazzz25906112]

All I can say is I wish I was there. Some of the badast cars on this board, driving to VegaRs (what a concept). Everytime I read this thread, my wife keeps asking why I'm cursing and saying I should be doing that. Hopefully you'll do it again next year. Have fun guys, Ron

Hey Ron we'd love to have had you with us for this run bud and you know that offer is still good, just fly on out and grab the wheel bud...

The trip has been offside!!!! any more fun would surely be illegal,,,,, Oh wait a minute I think there were a few moments out there LOL

[tazzz25906112]

Holy Crap Albert has been driving the entire trip on R888's you have balls man. How did they do in the rain? Are they wearing down quick? Bill pas this on if Albert is not connected on the web. I

Hey Matt, the ride in tthe rain was an experience to say the least only to be out done by blowing through a mud slide that wash over the highway LOL.....(see the under hood footage on V8tv for details lol)

The R888 seem to be holding up pretty good given the cool temps and rain I assume.... Guess we'll see if they make it back to Toronto without issue,,,, who knows maybe TOYO wants to make sure I'm on a fresh set on the way back home (LOL wishful thinking on my part LOL)

[Ron911]

Got a pic of cars in SEMA! Ron

[tazzz25906112]

Got a pic of cars in SEMA! Ron

Sorry Ron, brought the camera but didn't get a shot as the area wasn't completely setup yet....

[xxxturbo6]

The coverage and updates started off with a BANG and now there is none? Comon, Guy's! Hotel = WI FI :)

SW.

[Finch]

On the way in we stopped at the Hoover dam for a few shots.

https://www.pro-touring.com/forum/attachment.php?attachmentid=33741&stc=1&d=1257181487

https://www.pro-touring.com/forum/attachment.php?attachmentid=33742&stc=1&d=1257181487

[Finch]

Sunday morning we spent several hours knocking 2000 miles worth of grime from the cars before taking them in for the show. This is from the top floor of the parking garage.



https://www.pro-touring.com/forum/attachment.php?attachmentid=33745&stc=1&d=1257181769

https://www.pro-touring.com/forum/attachment.php?attachmentid=33746&stc=1&d=1257181772

https://www.pro-touring.com/forum/attachment.php?attachmentid=33747&stc=1&d=1257181896

[Finch]

Here was the group during our stop in Gallup NM. This was the 20 degree morning where Bill's transformer met it's end.

https://www.pro-touring.com/forum/attachment.php?attachmentid=33748&stc=1&d=1257182107

[xxxturbo6]

Thanks for the updates Brian!! Looks like the Fairlane made it and you guy's are having a blast!!

Scot W.

[Bill Howell]

Too much to do in the last couple days for updates. We got all the cars into the show, cleaned and ready for the opening day tomorrow. More great news too, Alberts car is in the Optima Challenge now, actually both of his cars are. One is on the way from Canada as I type this. Cool deal for him to get in last minute. I will try to get some good pictures of all the cars sitting on the floor tomorrow.

[TonyHuntimer]

Sunday morning we spent several hours knocking 2000 miles worth of grime from the cars before taking them in for the show. This is from the top floor of the parking garage.



https://www.pro-touring.com/forum/attachment.php?attachmentid=33745&stc=1&d=1257181769

https://www.pro-touring.com/forum/attachment.php?attachmentid=33746&stc=1&d=1257181772

https://www.pro-touring.com/forum/attachment.php?attachmentid=33747&stc=1&d=1257181896

Nothing like detailing a car in the direct Las Vegas sun...burning your skin. :)

[rogue]

I love that you guys are doing this....

[thedodgeboys]

So what does it really take to get into the Optima Challenge ?

[JEFFTATE]

This thread is sooooo cool !
I should have gone !!
Maybe next year...

You guys got to see Windslow Arizona , Route 66 , and Albequerque !!
Those are famous places !!

You guys know that this sort of thing is right up my alley ..
I was just out of vacation days or I would have gone..

[tazzz25906112]

This thread is sooooo cool !
I should have gone !!
Maybe next year...

You guys got to see Windslow Arizona , Route 66 , and Albequerque !!
Those are famous places !!

You guys know that this sort of thing is right up my alley ..
I was just out of vacation days or I would have gone..


It would have been cool to have you here with us bud.....

Getting things ready and such has been such a crazy bussy time but I hope to get over to the show floor this afternoon and will take pic's and post as soon as possible...

[KEISLER]

Here's one during the run to Flagstaff Arizona. Very dramatic change in scenary over a short period of time.

[KEISLER]

There was a massive mudslide on I40 that we actually drove through. Others behind us were not as fortunate, and a pileup occurred shutting down I40 at Cold Hill Arkansas, near Little Rock. It didn't reopen until Friday afternoon.

Thick mud covered the entire underbody of our cars and the engine compartment. The lights went dim from mud piling up on the lamps.

Here is a pic from the news press. Also that night, a train with 20 cars due to a mudslide covering the tracks. Tough night! But we made it through, and didn't even stop until it was time to refuel.

[KEISLER]

I was driving Albert's '70 Formula while he took this picture of the crew.

[Bill Howell]

OK, update from the road trip guys.
First, we have a couple more in the group now. Yancy's Fairlane is in the pack, plus Albert's white 72 that was at the event yesterday. Sadly, it is on a trailer as the engine is in pieces after shall we say an OH ***** moment....
The charger is in the trailer too. As those that were at the event know, we had issues with a upper control arm. Not so much issues, the piss poor weld broke in two places and damaged my fender. We found a machine shop that put it back together but the car is pulling hard to the left now and frankly I don't trust the other upper control arm so I made the decision to trailer it home after much ado. Thanks so much to Kyle Tucker for the offer to borrow some of his pieces and to Mike Norris and John Parsons for running the carnage to the machine shop to get it back together so we could at least load the car.
Other than that, great week, great times at the challenge and we are heading east as I type this. We will probably make Albuquerque (sp?) tonight and just have 1400 miles left.....argh.
Fun times guys, everyone needs to do this once. I can not wait til the next trip...

[Motown 454]

Even with the troubles ,I'm glad you guys had a good time.

[coolclassiccars]

bill, sorry to hear about your control arm failure.was wondering whose arms they were ?

[Bill Howell]

bill, sorry to hear about your control arm failure.was wondering whose arms they were ?
There are a couple threads online about the build. I will not post the manufacter here until after I talk to them in the morning and get an answer on what they intend to do about the problem. They are supposed to have the best stuff out there and well tested, but I guess I test harder than they do. I had completed the track and autocross just before I broke during the 0-60-0 test. I am just glad it broke at 2 mph instead of the 125 or so I had done on the road course. pretty scary when you think about it.

[thedodgeboys]

There are a couple threads online about the build. I will not post the manufacter here until after I talk to them in the morning and get an answer on what they intend to do about the problem. They are supposed to have the best stuff out there and well tested, but I guess I test harder than they do. I had completed the track and autocross just before I broke during the 0-60-0 test. I am just glad it broke at 2 mph instead of the 125 or so I had done on the road course. pretty scary when you think about it.

Bill so sorry that you broke I hope they stand behind it and make it right for you.
I thought their stuff was supposed to be road race ready and for what they charge for that stuff it should hold up to a little spirited driving.
Please let us know what they say.

[dropit69]

Damn Bill that sucks..guess it wasnt made for the way you drive or the TN hills..lol..sounds like you all had a great time..drive safe my friends !!

[lawbreaker2]

Cool pic's guy's but alot of them did not come in on my puter.:confused: And as far as running cross country, Use to do this every week from cleveland oh to L.A. and back Leave Cleveland on Fri. in L.A. on Mon. morrning and back by Fri. for a week off and do it all over again, Still miss it.:6gears: Do it all over again. So much to see and do and places to stop, Sad that I know every bump and turn in the road and the places to stop and eat and sleep. One of these days I will do this again but in my GTO or T/A.

[Bill Howell]

Damn Bill that sucks..guess it wasnt made for the way you drive or the TN hills..lol..sounds like you all had a great time..drive safe my friends !!
LOL Darrin, yeah I guess my R and D testing was a bit more rigid....

[lawbreaker2]

Any chance these road trip pic's will be put up on a website somewhere Like photobucket or something. Cuz Like I said a bunch did not work for me and I could not see them. Thanks.

[OLDFLM]

Sorry to hear about all the carnage and your A-arm failure my friend but at least no one was hurt... and we all had a hell of alot of fun!!

[Mr.VENGEANCE]

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/11/1253557018192230-1.jpg

[trapin]

Have a safe voyage home everyone!

[Bill Howell]

Any chance these road trip pic's will be put up on a website somewhere Like photobucket or something. Cuz Like I said a bunch did not work for me and I could not see them. Thanks.

Sure, we will have a lot of pictures up as soon as we can get home and decompress for a day or two. We have tons of shots from the trip, alot of fun but we are all ready to sleep in our own beds. I think we have one more night of motels then we should be home. We are in Amarillo right now.

[oestek]

We've got lots of pics, too... here's a sample..

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/11/DSC_0098a-1.jpg

[Roger M]

Great photo, Kevin. :cheers:

[Bill Howell]

I just got off the phone with manufacter. They do have a new upgrade for their suspension and new UCAs will be at my front door when I get home. They were very sorry for the issue, but at the same time happy no one was hurt. This should fix the problem and they also are going to help with a new sway bar, seems between the charger weight and my weight we may need bigger bar for turning...haha
Thanks for stepping up guys, and fast!

Kevin, great shot, I can not wait to see more.

[preston]

I've never been a fan of GW. Hope they follow through with what they told you on the phone.

[PARKERRS]

It's not GW under Bill's car.

[Steve1968LS2]

I've never been a fan of GW. Hope they follow through with what they told you on the phone.

Not GW.. or Heidts.. or Hotchkis.. or DSE.. or fatman.. or...

It's a Mopar

Let's not play the guessing game as to who it is, if Bill wants to say then he will.

I'm sure if the MFG doesn't follow through Bill will let us know ASAP.. he's isn't really the "shy" type. :)

[slowcamaro]

Lets see a side by side of the new one versus the old ones when they come in. I would like to see them before you destroy this next set. LOL

If its the company I think it is, all of the LCA photos look really beefy, but I don't think I have seen a clear shot of the uppers.

[parsonsj]

The lowers are C5 or C6 parts. They should be fine.

jp

[KEISLER]

Here's one of my favorite pics from SEMA. Leann from DBA. She's a road course racer from Georgia. Nice!!

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/11/LEANN_KUDA-1.jpg


And a nice shot of Bill's, Albert's and my car.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/11/pahrump_trio-1.jpg

[KEISLER]

Chris and I made a pit stop at a few places before catching back up with the crew yesterday at the hotel in Santa Rosa NM

Hoover Dam Monument
This was a beautiful stop. Very, very glad to have seen the Hoover Dam
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/11/Hoover_Scaler-1.jpg

Brian & Nicole Finch rollin' in the Kuda
We traded cars for a couple hours today so I could bang some gears in Brian's '71 Camaro, and he could bang the paddles on the Kuda. Check out the Dirty Fun SEMA Run sticker on the quarter glass.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/11/Finch_Kuda-1.jpg

Old Warriors
the return trip has several old car yards. this one was sporting some oddities
Stude pickup, Opel Kadett, Porshe 914
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/11/DFSR_old_warriors-1.jpg

Mustang II V8 Targa - I don't even remember the last time I saw one of these. This one sports the original paint.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/11/DFSR_mustang2targa-1.jpg

Javelin SST - always had a soft spot for these early Javlins and AMX cars. a 6.1 HEMI and 6-speed would do this baby right. wish I could have brought it home...
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/11/DFSR_JavelinSST-1.jpg

[Bill Howell]

Back on the road and hammered down. The Fairlane got a flat on I-40 in Oklahoma city at 5:00 rush hour. Thanks to the guys at Firestone on 29th street for all the help....East Bound and Down.....

[thedodgeboys]

I just got off the phone with manufacter. They do have a new upgrade for their suspension and new UCAs will be at my front door when I get home. They were very sorry for the issue, but at the same time happy no one was hurt. This should fix the problem and they also are going to help with a new sway bar, seems between the charger weight and my weight we may need bigger bar for turning...haha
Thanks for stepping up guys, and fast!

Kevin, great shot, I can not wait to see more.

Thats great Bill sounds like you had fun for most of the event.

[KEISLER]

Back on the road and hammered down. The Fairlane got a flat on I-40 in Oklahoma city at 5:00 rush hour. Thanks to the guys at Firestone on 29th street for all the help....East Bound and Down.....

YOU'RE THE BEST KENNY POWERS
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/11/DFSR_YANCY-1.jpg

[KEISLER]

We just filled up at a gas station. Brian and Danny had a "homemade pizza pocket" from the counter. Danny said it was great.

Then we just waited 5min for Danny to run to the bathroom $hitter.:lol:

[tintman]

Just wanted to say I had a great time meeting and hanging out with some of you guys at Findlay Customs Friday night before the race. It was great to see the cars up close and you are all a great bunch of guys. Return home safely. Jake

[lawbreaker2]

Love all the pic's guy's, But boy I sure do miss running the road out there, as many time as I been up and down I-40 there was NEVER a day that went bye that I didn't see something new, No matter how many times you run that road you will always see something you didn't see the last time.

[lawbreaker2]

The pic's of the junk yard, I don't want to say it But I think I know where that is, use to have a 67 gto by the fence for years.:naughty: Is this the one outside of vegas but before kingman. Hint hint. Pass the dam on the right.

[lawbreaker2]

Sure, we will have a lot of pictures up as soon as we can get home and decompress for a day or two. We have tons of shots from the trip, alot of fun but we are all ready to sleep in our own beds. I think we have one more night of motels then we should be home. We are in Amarillo right now.


Cool, will be waiting.:smoke:

[KEISLER]

Just wanted to say I had a great time meeting and hanging out with some of you guys at Findlay Customs Friday night before the race. It was great to see the cars up close and you are all a great bunch of guys. Return home safely. Jake
Jake,
We had a great time with all of the guys and friends of Finley Customs. Jake, I hope you can make it out east so you can do the clear bra on our cars at the shows like I mentioned. Great work on that black AC Cobra.
We're about 150mi from Little Rock and haulin!

[Bill Howell]

Just wanted to say I had a great time meeting and hanging out with some of you guys at Findlay Customs Friday night before the race. It was great to see the cars up close and you are all a great bunch of guys. Return home safely. Jake
Thanks again Jake for all wheel changes and all your help!!! Without Guys like yourself, all of this would not be possible!

[zbugger]

Bill, good to see you came out of that ok and are being supported by the manufacturer. But doesn't that just make this trip more memorable? I wish I could have been a part of it. Hope you guys get the rest of the way home without issue.

[67MalibuRulz]

Can't wait to read about the trip to SEMA in print! Please post lots of pictures. I'm loving the shots of people getting out and hitting Hoover Dam with their Mopars. ;0)

[Tony@AirRideTech]

seems between the charger weight and my weight we may need bigger bar for turning...haha


Kevin, great shot, I can not wait to see more.

Bill.... I thought I noticed a little bit of a lean in the car :) It was great seeing you out there Bill and the car looked great!

[Bill Howell]

Did they add 200 miles to the country while we were in Vegas??????

I don't think we are ever going to get back home. I swear, it was not this far coming out...haha

Home tonight, if we have to call in new drivers....... looks like we will be in Tennessee in about an hour then it is just 407 more miles of I-40

[Scott Parkhurst]

Was great seeing all of you guys at the show and the event. Glad all is well and no one's stuff got bent up.

~S~

[oestek]

Man, I love this car!

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/11/DSC_0009a-1.jpg

[lawbreaker2]

Come on. Guys I use to run a 1000 mile A day and I'm. Slowing down and only doing 500 a day. You need to quit stopping every hour LOL.

[MoparCar]

I just got off the phone with manufacter. They do have a new upgrade for their suspension and new UCAs will be at my front door when I get home. They were very sorry for the issue, but at the same time happy no one was hurt. This should fix the problem and they also are going to help with a new sway bar, seems between the charger weight and my weight we may need bigger bar for turning...haha
Thanks for stepping up guys, and fast!


I believe the new UCAs are solid billet pieces. Should fix the issue for sure! It seems the billet pieces started to show up in pictures about a 1/2 a year ago so maybe they became aware of this. Glad they are doing what's needed.

Wes

[Bill Howell]

Come on. Guys I use to run a 1000 mile A day and I'm. Slowing down and only doing 500 a day. You need to quit stopping every hour LOL.
Seriously, I think they added about 200 miles to the country somewhere while we were in Vegas, dang. We have about 50 more interstate miles left and we will be home, probably in an hour. I hear you, I am certainly slipping, can not go as long as I used to. We did have a flat last night that cost alot of time, but hey, that is part of the trip, no biggy. At least I have had time to adjust back to EST. That is always an issue when I fly out and back for a couple of days.

[shmoov69]

I'm jealous guys! Glad everyone had a good and safe time. Sorry to hear about your problems Bill.

[Ron S]

I'm so sorry I didn't go, sounds like it was a blast. The ride home is never as much fun. Hey Bill if you messed up any sheetmetal that can't be fixed let me know I will ask around. Ron

[YancyJohns]

I want to Thank everyone that was on the trip and there great Help! It was a fantastic time!! I especially want to that Tom McBride from Bowler Transmissions. He has worked his *ss off on the Fairlane to put a 4-link in the rear, coilovers in the front, new rack and pinion and custom made monte carlo/stut tower bars. Of course nothing fit but Tom custom made alot pieces along with the help from Air Ride/Ride Tech guys. Thanks Guys!!! I love the new Tiger Cage from Ride Tech it is Sweeet! Thanks Bret!!! Tom drove all the way to Vegas in Fairlane and Calvin followed in truck and trailor and tried their best to catch us. I still can't figure out how Tom drives in construction/work boots and pulls off a 45+ sec autocross time in the Fairlane.....lol It's a true testimate of driving skill and his car set up. Thanks again Tom and everyone who helped on the Fairlane!!!!:worship:

[Steve1968LS2]

Glad you guys made it home safe and sound!

See ya at the next event.. Motorstate?

[JEFFTATE]

Wish I could've gone.
Maybe next year ???

[Bill Howell]

Like Yancy said, thanks to everyone that went, and to everyone that we met along the way, and helped out when we needed that. This trip was the start of something I hope will continue on for years.
I woke up this morning to a flat on the trailer this morning. After 4100 miles, I am happy it is the only issue we had with my truck and trailer and that it happened today instead of yesterday.
The trip was a blast, as we get caught up from being gone for two weeks, we will get more pictures of the trip online and Chris is going to write a full story on the trip.

[tazzz25906112]

I'm in for next year buddy.....and yes that would have sucked if the tire went out on the road.....

Chris thanks for riding along and putting up with all our crazy a$$es during the trip.... We just got back in Toronto 5,455 miles later about 5hrs ago after a 26hr last leg cluster drive with the dually's codes keeping us on our feet the whole way LOL....

Anyone remotely considering this trip for next year should definitely go!!!! It was an unforgettable absolute Blast that should be experienced first hand if time and resources permit....
The laughs, the antics and the landscapes along the way truly rank up there with "Just one of those special life experiences not be missed or forgotten"....

[Bill Howell]

Glad to see you made it home Albert. Get some rest then get that camaro torn down, wanting to know what the bad news is.

Here are a couple shots Yancy took at a photo op on the way out. The last one is my new screen saver, imagine that!
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/11/020-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/11/023-1.jpg

[tintman]

Thanks again Jake for all wheel changes and all your help!!! Without Guys like yourself, all of this would not be possible!

I would like to take the credit but Joe was doing most of the tire swapping. Good thing no one else from the shop is on here I would never live it down being mistaken for Joe.:)

[YancyJohns]

I'm glad you made it home Albert, I was beginning to wonder...lol The last leg wasn't the same without you. Thanks for the great memories Albert. Now hurry up and get that T/A done for SEMA next year....lol

[tazzz25906112]

Glad to see you made it home Albert. Get some rest then get that camaro torn down, wanting to know what the bad news is.

Here are a couple shots Yancy took at a photo op on the way out. The last one is my new screen saver, imagine that!
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/11/020-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/11/023-1.jpg


Thanks for the sleep wishes Bill what can I say, Rolando calls me the "Rhino" for a reason....
I was home around noon and the motor, tranny, and full exhaust system was out of the car inside of two hours....

The term sleep deprivation comes to mind, so Rolli gets a pass tonight on the motor tear down LOL.... Seriously though, I hope to have a look at the internals tomorrow all things equal, but from we've "already seen"..... It's "Really not pretty" bud.

[tazzz25906112]

I'm glad you made it home Albert, I was begining to wonder...lol The last leg wasn't the same without you. Thanks for the great memories Albert. Now hurry up and get that T/A done for SEMA next year....lol

Thanks Yancy, it was kinda weird for us too bud,,, and it certainly wasn't the same I agree.....

Next year I think we'll go all the way over to Pigeon Forge with you guys then head North from there....
Hell we'll have us some more fun and make even more memories,,,, after all we have have a new tradition to holdup buddy.

Don't you worry about "WARPATH",,,,, It'll be making noise in the Spring all things equal... I told Ro to get ready for one of my "major push to the wall deals" as we have a lot of work ahead of us to do on that build.... I was on the phone non-stop lining up stuff for the car and it's concept unveiling at PRI the rest of the way home (that is between clearing codes in the the dually LOL)

[tazzz25906112]

Those shots are killer Bill,,,, I can see why you picked it for the background.....

Yancy, thanks again for plate,,,,,, My wife Lynn thought it was "SO" cool that everyone signed it.... GREAT MEMORIES man.

[KEISLER]

We (Bill, Mark, Danny, Albert & crew, Yancy, Brian, Nicole & Marco, Chris and myself) made it home safely. This trip was filled with so many great memories of new and old friends, America's landscape and the Hoover Dam. It would have been a great trip in a rental, but doing it in the muscle cars was a dream come true. We made a good team and took care of each other. It's what friends are all about.

Lots of pictures and video to post in the coming days.

[Bill Howell]

I can not wait to see Chris' pictures. I think he had a wide lense that Yancy said did a killer shot at the photo op.

The only thing that I would change about the trip was not being able to stop at all the neat places along the way to get photos with the cars. Trouble is, it would have added a week to an already long trip. ONE DAY....... I will have the time and money to do just that. We live in a amazing country and so many different climates and landscapes. I want to take a month one year and just hit the road. So much to see, so little time.

As I have told others, this was better than a Power Tour to me and I have done two PTs. Just enough cars together to drive people crazy but not so many that you could not get thru the traffic. Every gas stop meant talking to someone about the one they used to have or their dad bought new. That is cool though and part of the reason we do what we do. I think Brian beat everyone with about 25mph, crazy. The truck got 11.3 mpg, but I was happy we had it after the mishap with the uca on Saturday. If it will not rain here tomorrow, I will get the charger out of the trailer and fix the frontend, parts came today. Gotta get it ready for Turkey Rod Run in two weeks, thats right, driving it to Daytona in two weeks. Anyone want to go???

[tazzz25906112]

I can not wait to see Chris' pictures. I think he had a wide lense that Yancy said did a killer shot at the photo op.

The only thing that I would change about the trip was not being able to stop at all the neat places along the way to get photos with the cars. Trouble is, it would have added a week to an already long trip. ONE DAY....... I will have the time and money to do just that. We live in a amazing country and so many different climates and landscapes. I want to take a month one year and just hit the road. So much to see, so little time.

As I have told others, this was better than a Power Tour to me and I have done two PTs. Just enough cars together to drive people crazy but not so many that you could not get thru the traffic. Every gas stop meant talking to someone about the one they used to have or their dad bought new. That is cool though and part of the reason we do what we do. I think Brian beat everyone with about 25mph, crazy. The truck got 11.3 mpg, but I was happy we had it after the mishap with the uca on Saturday. If it will not rain here tomorrow, I will get the charger out of the trailer and fix the frontend, parts came today. Gotta get it ready for Turkey Rod Run in two weeks, thats right, driving it to Daytona in two weeks. Anyone want to go???

Now ya know your being a tease right there buddy LOL.... Dam why the Hell they have to have snow up these ways bought this time of year (or soon) anyway...

[tazzz25906112]

We (Bill, Mark, Danny, Albert & crew, Yancy, Brian, Nicole & Marco, Chris and myself) made it home safely. This trip was filled with so many great memories of new and old friends, America's landscape and the Hoover Dam. It would have been a great trip in a rental, but doing it in the muscle cars was a dream come true. We made a good team and took care of each other. It's what friends are all about.

Lots of pictures and video to post in the coming days.


You bet Shafi, it is all about the friendships made buddy.... Keep in touch re PRI buddy

[lawbreaker2]

Man reading this thread has got me thinking about going back hauling cars coast to coast again, I got so burned out doing those back to back runs, But I am running a load out to vegas in the spring and then down to socal and back, so that should make me feel better. LOL Glad you all had fun and are back safe.
Who on here has the green Formula, I don't know if you remember me but I was yapping with you at Tip city in the parking lot taking pic's of your car at the trans am nat's you have a sweet ride there, Maybe someday I'll run my lucy blue 70 t/a and chase that lime green formula across country. LOL:6gears:

[YancyJohns]

Bill, you know I'm in. My kids are already asking when our we going to Disney. Two days at Disney and two days at the Turkey Rod Run. I've finally figured it out...lol

[tazzz25906112]

Man reading this thread has got me thinking about going back hauling cars coast to coast again, I got so burned out doing those back to back runs, But I am running a load out to vegas in the spring and then down to socal and back, so that should make me feel better. LOL Glad you all had fun and are back safe.
Who on here has the green Formula, I don't know if you remember me but I was yapping with you at Tip city in the parking lot taking pic's of your car at the trans am nat's you have a sweet ride there, Maybe someday I'll run my lucy blue 70 t/a and chase that lime green formula across country. LOL:6gears:
lawbreaker2, thats my Formula..... I spoke to quite a few people over at Tip so you'd have to tweak me with more details bud. Now as far as the TA & Formula go, who knows maybe I'd be chasing you as I don't know what ya got under the hood, but man that sure would be fun finding out ;-) LOL...
:6gears: :6gears: X2

[tazzz25906112]

Bill, you know I'm in. My kids are already asking when our we going to Disney. Two days at Disney and two days at the Turkey Rod Run. I've finally figured it out...lol


Boy oh Boy this is sounding more and more like a road trip here boys LOL ...... Ah not,,, Hell rain and R888 are one thing,,,,but snow and well run set of R888 would add a whole new dimension to the "pucker power hour" ROFLMAO...

Heck Yancy, that sounds like it should be part of the Power Block on Saturday around noon or something,,,what do you think LOL....

[JEFFTATE]

I will get the charger out of the trailer and fix the frontend, parts came today. Gotta get it ready for Turkey Rod Run in two weeks, thats right, driving it to Daytona in two weeks. Anyone want to go???

Damn Bill , you are hardcore !!!
You're a road warrior !!

[KEISLER]

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/11/IMG_4675-1.jpg

[lawbreaker2]

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/11/IMG_4675-1.jpg

Now thats funny.:1st:

[BonzoHansen]

Now THAT is an east bound & down picture!!!

[TonyHuntimer]

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/11/IMG_4675-1.jpg


That's awesome!

[lawbreaker2]

lawbreaker2, thats my Formula..... I spoke to quite a few people over at Tip so you'd have to tweak me with more details bud. Now as far as the TA & Formula go, who knows maybe I'd be chasing you as I don't know what ya got under the hood, but man that sure would be fun finding out ;-) LOL...
:6gears: :6gears: X2


Hey Tazz!!! here a pic of me, I'm the guy with all the Good looking girls hanging on me. LOL :yum::1st:

[tazzz25906112]

Hey Tazz!!! here a pic of me, I'm the guy with all the Good looking girls hanging on me. LOL :yum::1st:

I don't know Law, maybe a couple more shots with those three beautiful distractions beside you mite shake up my memory ROFLMAO..... I do recall that mug of yours know come to think of it LOL.

[KEISLER]

Hey Folks,

Check this out from our trip to SEMA.
cSX4kNh7mBI
Thanks to Jason Rushforth & Paul Dyck for crafting the Dirty Fun SEMA Run sticker after our table napkin sketch in New Mexico.

And thanks to Kevin and Kelle Oeste from V8TV for video taping a good portion of the content in this video, and helping us come up with a cool name for the event!

Shafi

[Bill Howell]

< disclaimer: The last three seconds of this video was a 35 to 65 run......yeah, right!

[Ron S]

We know you would NEVER break the law. Cars look really good,hoping there is a next year. Ron

[Finch]

Nice video Shafi, It is good to see those little reminders from time to time to get us through the long cold winter.

Next year will be bigger and better...................

[tazzz25906112]

We know you would NEVER break the law. Cars look really good,hoping there is a next year. Ron

Ron we'll be acting up again "for sure buddy" and you're on the hit list pal.... Heck you were on this years list but life got in the way right ;-)

Shafi that clip was awesome buddy,,,, we're going to have to tag you with the nick name "Go Go Gadget" with all those cameras and the cool video editing stuff LOL... You're the best bud

[YancyJohns]

I'm finally getting around to posting some more cool pics on our trip...
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif
Sorry Bill, you've already got my best picture.

[Bill Howell]

I feel so left out right now....:crying:

[Finch]

I feel so left out right now....:crying:


Here ya go Bill,

https://www.pro-touring.com/forum/attachment.php?attachmentid=35505&stc=1&d=1263863487

[Danny Thomas]

I feel so left out right now....:crying:
Sorry Bill when I was taking some of these pics my lens wasn't big enough to encompass the SS Howell.....Sorry :hammer:

[Danny Thomas]

Yancy, that evenig shot we took of the Fairlane turned out really cool. :3rd: