I will be driving my unrestored 1970 Plymouth Superbird from Jeffersonville, Indiana to Fairbanks, Alaska and back from June 23, 2015 until July 14, 2015. Plan is 600 miles daily with 6-9 extra days for trouble, pictures, golf or whatever and to avoid mountains where possible. Mechanical planning has begun and will continue with all input appreciated. Vacation days are already set aside and barring health or major mechanical issues all systems are now go.
The Bird is a 440-4 with automatic and 3:54 gears in 8 ¾ rear. Transmission is freshly rebuilt, engine runs smoothly and rear end has never had any issues. Car has 40,000 miles on it original. On a mechanic scale of 1-10 (1 being the best) I would be a 3 with decent skills in most things but expert in none and I will be alone for the majority of the trip.
Part 1 Electronics
We started with a 6 hour planning session on electronics. My biggest fear is the 45 year old wiring, so decision 1 is to only drive during the daytime, decision 2 that nothing will be plugged into the lighter or wiring harness. The wiring harness has never been molested. Combine that with our desire for both time lapse and live video and here is what we have come up with. My son owns a laser cutter/3d printing company and is designing and making the needed items below.
First he has developed and is now making a first fabrication of a clear Lucite type clamshell case that will mount on the rear wing in a manner that is wrapped in microfiber wherever it touches the wing. The case will be removable every night for safety and to transfer the day's pictures (estimated at 8,200 daily) to a portable hard drive. The design will also allow me to replace the clear front with the 3-4 extras I will carry with me and will be designed as aerodynamically as possible. Inside the sealed case will be a Go-Pro camera set to take a picture every 5 seconds. It will have the extended battery for an estimated 3-4 hour battery life. Mounted in the top of the case will be a solar power unit that will trickle charge the battery through some wiring connection he designed as well (he is also our company's IT guy). Every night I will unhook the camera box, remove the Micro SD memory cards and either download or replace. The card will hold approximately 12 hours of pictures taken every 5 seconds so will not need replacing during the day. We expect to have 10 of these cards in case 1 goes bad or I do not have the ability to transfer to a hard drive. Since I hope to be able to write a short note every night I want to be able to upload some of these pictures nightly where possible.
Second we have found a desktop solar panel in a soft case that will charge my cell phone and 1 other device as needed. The cell phone can be unplugged from the charger if I need the USB port for other things since the cell has a long life battery. I do not plan on taking a GPS just maps. Board members tell me if you think I am nuts and I will reconsider, but I do not want to plug anything in to the lighter. What we are planning with the other charging port is to run a second GoPro camera that will record every minute of the day. The solar panel will provide enough power in full sun to keep the battery topped off and in lesser sun will recharge it fast enough that we can make a full day. I will have to change the Micro SD cards every 3-4 hours and transfer the contents to a hard drive every night, but since I plan on stopping for gas every 100-150 miles that should be doable.
Third I am going to also carry a hand held CB radio that will run off of 9 AA batteries.
Fourth all gauges in the Bird work but the fuel gauge is and always has been flaky. I replaced it a couple of years ago when I replaced the 45 year old fuel tank but it is never right. I definitely need suggestions here from members. I also am going to replace the OEM type of battery with a modern top quality one before the trip. I changed over to electronic ignition about 5 years ago so the ignition and distributor is good. I have not replaced the starter that I can remember but have no problems with it or headlights or other lights/electrical. I don't really care about music and the AM radio works and is original so I will leave it alone and carry a pocket AM/FM/weather radio.
So at the end of Part 1 on electrical I am asking you guys for suggestions here on electrical stuff.
Needed electrical issues:
1. New battery for car
2. Fix fuel gauge if possible
3. Assemble GoPro system and solar power systems (have the 2 GoPro cameras and dash solar charger system, need
camera solar panel)
4. 4 sets extra AA batteries for hand held CB (have the CB)
5. Electrical kit: fuses, tape, crimpers, connectors, 20' of 12 and 14 gauge wire
6. Replace plugs and plug wires prior to trip
7. Fix loose radio antenna
8. Portable 1 TB USB hard drive for data transfer
9. 10 64GB Micro USB cards
Next Up: Cooling and brakes
This is gonna be good. :yesnod: :popcrn:
This is very cool! To go from selling the car a few years ago to a drive of a life time is very cool!
If you never had any gremlins with the wiring, you should be okay?
If I were you, I would buy some spare parts-
- fuel pump
- alternator
- starter relay
- ballast
- voltage regulator
Check your wheel bearings, axle seals, brake cylinders. Maybe an aluminum radiator for the trip.
Grabbing my popcorn early :popcrn: :popcrn: :popcrn:
Excellent plan for a trip of a life time road trip. Very cool thing to mark on the calendar.
I'd definitely consider an after market heavy duty finned voltage regulator, or a few spares of the stock type, I've had three go bad in different cars.
And spare ecu's , plug boots and wires , coil, usual fan belts , cable ties
As the other guys said above for mechanical, I'd also do the driveshaft crosses too.
Also do a few current tests with an in line ammeter multi meter so you know what your load drawn will be in relation to the cigarette lighter power supply. I made a portable plug in stereo ( modified Sony) and it only draws 3Amps maxed out. I run it with my radar detector on a double adaptor out of the lighter and have never had a problem. The wiring and fuse is rated at 10A anyway so I think you won't have any problems running devices for nav or charger appliances.
Great idea with the motion lapse pictures.
what a trip. major brave here to take an old car on that trip. :notworthy:
like said, plenty of spare parts. there will be large stretches with nothing out there. :2thumbs:
Sounds like fun.
I drove a 2nd across the country 30 years ago. 600 miles per day will be brutal.
Take a pup tent and sleeping bag.
Thanks-suggestions noted. Space will be somewhat of an issue, but I think the ideas to take a spare coil, ECU and voltage regulator will be taken because they are small in size, hard to find and commonly bad.
We are having our cooling/brakes planning session tonight and hope to put that summary up tomorrow night. Driveline after that.
I will be taking a sleeping bag and hoping not to use it, but physical needs planning comes after the car.
Thanks-keep the ideas coming as the lunacy builds.
Bob, are you doing this with your son?
This should be FUN! In 1999 I drove from Seattle to Talladega and back in 2 weeks (7,500 miles) and all went really good. HAVE FUN and enjoy all the looks you will be getting.
Personally, and this comes from DIRECT PERSONAL EXPERIENCE, is to take out the cluster, send the frame with the amp gauge with it and ship it to Shannon at http://www.redlinegaugeworks.com/
Do the amp to volt conversion like I have done on all my Mopars since that imfamous day in which my former C500 almost went up in flames because its amp gauge shorted out.......
You have plenty of time to do this...... You can call me if you wish and I can tell you what I've done. That, for me, would be the biggest "Peace of mind".....
Troy
Good point Troy :2thumbs: its #1 electrical system flaw, totally forgot to mention it, have bridged out mine & altered wiring when I got it.
Thanks-on the gauges will those guys do the amp to voltmeter change out? I have seen other posts on the board about this but have never attempted it.
I am hoping my son will go with me, but he may only go for part of the trip. He has a young baby and I don't want to play the once in a lifetime card even though it is a once in a lifetime thing. I'm going either way and wife has no interest but doesn't seem to mind too much.
Bob
Quote from: held1823 on August 24, 2014, 11:39:47 PM
Quote from: Ghoste on August 24, 2014, 08:40:40 PM
This is gonna be good. :yesnod: :popcrn:
WAY good
:iagree: sounds like a awesome adventure :2thumbs: :popcrn: :popcrn: :popcrn: :yesnod: :popcrn:
Road trip to Alaska...............you are in for one of the best trips of your life.
I did the Alaska Highway, then the full circle of the state in my motorhome.....loved it!
As others have said, there are areas were you will not see another car for some time........enjoy! :2thumbs:
Here is the view that will show from the GoPro mounted just in front of the wing (on the wing) (http://i.imgur.com/NwJd0jv.jpg)
:popcrn:
A friend of mine just did calif to Alaska and back in a model T speedster towing a tear drop trailer he made, his wife and him did 1800 miles through Alaska, you will be surprised how much help the people of Alaska will be when you need it and they love seeing any old cars from the early 70s on back.
Enjoy the trip, it will be a great adventure.
Plan on doing a cross country trip in my 40 Packard 180 in the next year or two, just waiting to switch it over to radial wide whites, hate changing tube type tires.
Be sure and check out the distances between gas stops. These old 440's don't have much range with a 19 gallon tank. You don't want to get stranded out in the middle of Alaska with some amorous moose giving you the eye....
IMO, loose the 3.54 rear diff and install a solid 2.76
I would love to do something like this someday . But I will take longer then 2 weeks to do it,,,, I want to actually visit some of the places I see along the way.
Troy-good suggestion on the gauges I am going to call redline and send off whatever they tell me to send.
Bill-you rebuilt my heater core/box a couple of years ago so part of your work is going to Alaska!
Quote from: taxspeaker on August 25, 2014, 08:32:33 PM
Troy-good suggestion on the gauges I am going to call redline and send off whatever they tell me to send.
Bill-you rebuilt my heater core/box a couple of years ago so part of your work is going to Alaska!
Good deal......... I'll let you know what I did... But, you will eventually have to connect the black and red leads going to the amp gauge... They can either face your gauge with a volt scale or the original amp scale. I choose the original look. You can tell if things are discharging, the needle still goes the other way....... When I joined my two leads, I made sure there was a good connection ( via a small nut/bolt/lockwasher ). Then I took a part of a heater hose, cut a slit in it and inserted the connection into it. The hose acts as an insulator from grounding and chaffing......... May be grude, but heck, it works great........
Quote from: taxspeaker on August 25, 2014, 08:32:33 PM
Troy-good suggestion on the gauges I am going to call redline and send off whatever they tell me to send.
Bill-you rebuilt my heater core/box a couple of years ago so part of your work is going to Alaska!
Good deal, I was wondering if your ever got the car done.
Wish I was riding shotgun. We have family in Anchorage
Sounds like a great trip.
You will be traveling in places where replacement parts will be hard to find. I had the benefit of remaining in the States on my 3000 mile trip so I wasn't too worried about finding something if I needed it.
The wiring issues mentioned earlier would be my first concern. Either bypass the amp meter or convert to volts as already mentioned. We did the "mad" conversion on mine.
http://www.forabodiesonly.com/mopar/showthread.php?t=265125
We put in a couple of extra fusible links as well.
Odd as it may sound at first, I would take an extra master cylinder.
A good jack with the correct size lug nut socket. If you have reproduction lug nuts they may be a different size than stock.
Fluids, basic tools, duct tape, wire, cord etc. and a fire extinguisher.
Hoses and belts.
A test run of 500 miles would be good. Problems don't seem to show up until after the car has been at full operating temperature for a couple of hours. A run like that will uncover any seal, leak, heat related issues.
I will add more as I think of things,
Brennan
http://www.madelectrical.com/electricaltech/amp-gauges.shtml
Here is another link.
The entire route is paved, right?
I saw some blog a way back where some guy was driving from Seattle to AK and there were some washboard packed gravel stretches.
Wow, great project!
While in Alaska, please ask around for other Superbird, my old one was last seen in Alaska. Orange when it went there, original color is green, VIN RM23u0A161593!
Have a great, safe trip!
ben
Great to see you are going to drive it like your supposed to. :2thumbs: When I get my Daytona I am going to drive it everywhere!
:iagree: :cheers: :2thumbs:
Thanks guys
To bring the project up to date:
We have installed and tested the solar unit for the dashtop. It has 2-USB ports that direct output enough charge in full sunlight for a cellphone and the "always on" front GoPro camera in the front dash. We have obtained the solar panel for the back tray along with a compact battery backup that will (combined) provide enough charge/and 8 to 10 re-charges for cell phone, laptop, flashlight and GoPro battery for the time lapse 2nd Go Pro mounted on the wing.
Several people have emailed about costs and item descriptions, so I will try to give all that as we go through things.
GoalZero.com was the source for the rear solar panels/power pack using the Nomad 20 solar panel and the Yeti 150 solar generator with built in inverter to 12 volt and 110 volt. ($400).
We got the front solar panel outfit from Amazon-the Anker 14W dual port solar charger. It is 3' wide by 11" tall and fits the dash perfectly. It cost $70.
We also bought a new Cobra HHRoadtrip hand held 40-channel CB for $78 on Amazon. We wanted the 4 watt output strength and magnet mounted antenna for the roof if needed.
The wing has been micrometer measured and the case has been 3-d designed for the GoPro wing camera. Case is not yet built but is about 2 weeks from first version-we ran into some issues on solar that we have now overcome. I will have Ryan (my son) post pictures of it when it is done since he is a member here too. Camera will take shots every 5 seconds and have extended battery that I will change every 3 hours when stopping for gas. I will also change out the MicroSD card in the camera at that time. We are using 64GB micro SD cards that cost $40 at Frys.com. I plan on transferring both the live film and the 5 second photos each evening to the laptop.
Next weekend the dash will be removed and sent off for the amp gauge safety conversion, as advised by board members. No other electrical items foreseen now. I am (also following board advice) going to get a GPS that will run off of USB power as well.
Over the last week we have replaced all fuel lines with new stainless steel ones, as well as connecting hoses, pump, filter and vapor lock canister. I have ordered one of those new fuel sending units the Dixie Restoration guy is having made and that is the only weakness in the fuel system other than the carb. Carb is original, rebuilt last year and still has functioning choke and exhaust manifold heater.
We have completed planning on cooling system. Heater core and box was rebuilt last year and all hoses were replaced at that time. Radiator is now out and will be rebuilt this week. While it is out I am thinking about replacing the water pump as well-it has never been replaced. What do you guys think about the pump? I have several aluminum high flow ones on shelves in our shop, but am partial to the one from Mancini. When the radiator goes back we will again replace all antifreeze and also install some HyperLube additive. We will carry 2 gallons of pre-mixed antifreeze and 2 gallons of water in the car, as well as 2 extra belts for both fan and power steering pump.
Now for the brakes. The car has the original brakes and cylinders/rotors on it with 40,000 original miles. I still think I am going to do a 4 wheel job and go ahead and do the calipers and rear cylinders at the same time. What do you guys think-rebuild the calipers and cylinders, or replace them with new ones? While I am at it I think we better replace the master cylinder and brake lines and all fluid with that new DOT 4 fluid. I will of course repack the front wheel bearings when I do the brakes.
Once the cooling and brakes are done we will focus on suspension. Shocks are new, front end was rebuilt 2 years ago so I am inclined to leave it all alone there. Comments?
Now for the driveline. The transmission was rebuilt earlier this year and I have talked with the shop that did it about my plans. They are an old-line Chrysler shop and they don't cut corners. They say as long as I watch fluid levels (it doesn't leak) they would take it anywhere.
The engine runs fine, has no knocks, ticks or noises and does not burn any oil. My plans there are a fresh tune up, oil change along with a Hyperlube additive and go from there. Engine is not the original one, but is a 69 HiPo block about which I know nothing. The guy is dead that I got it from but compression is good and no leaks. Comments here?
Now for the rear end. It is an 8 3/4 running 3:55 gears. Several guys have suggested changing that but I don't want to-I really want to drive this car as it was in 1970 without modern stuff or changes except for safety. There is no whine or noise out of the rear. I do plan on changing the rear lube and praying!. One concern is rear wheel bearings-not sure whether I should do anything there or not.
The goal for all mechanical things to be done is mid February. I then hope in March to take it on a 250-300 mile round trip test drive for the day, sort out any problems, and then begin planning on what I will carry in the trunk for the car and for me. The plan is 600 miles each day when possible.
The schedule is now firm. I will leave Southern Indiana on June 22 to go to Michigan-600 miles. I have to work in Bay Harbor Michigan for 3 days in June, finishing at 1:00pm on June 25. That afternoon I will head across Michigan's upper peninsula, northern Wisconsin and Minnesota, stopping the first night somewhere in northern Minnesota or maybe even Fargo, ND. The next day I will start winging it as to distance and schedule-crossing into Canada somewhere in North Dakota. I plan to start at dawn each morning and drive 4-5 hours, take a break for an hour or two in the middle of the day and drive 4-5 more hours from 4 until dark. Hope to catch a car show somewhere in Canada on June 27 or 28 and arrive in Fairbanks somewhere around June 30 or July 1. Then spend 3-4 days in Alaska and slowly work my way back via a different route down through Montana and Wyoming.
Will post again in a few weeks.
Thanks for the advice guys-keep it coming.
Bob
By the way if anyone offers you a 24' enclosed black Freedom car hauler trailer with awning and outside spotlights and custom aluminum floor and 30amp electrical system email me. They stole ours on AUgust 26th. It has "Plymouth Superbird" decals on the front and side but no car was in it thankfully.
Just a couple more ideas:
3.55s at 60 MPH is 3000 RPM approximately
600 miles at 60 is 10 hours
10 hours on 1970 seats is a loooooonnnnnggg day lol
At least you are heading North - so AC won't be as big an issue.
Allow time for conversation - every gas stop will take extra time to talk with people who are curious about the car.
I made better mileage with lower octane fuel - octane will be more of an issue when you are in the mountains.
Sounds like an epic journey - enjoy and congratulations for deciding to take it.
:cheers:
Thanks arnie your advice is excellent and your trip was legendary and the basis of this trip
Bob
Cool! Thank You,
Brennan
Pros and Cons - crossing into Canada
The great plains of North Dakota and Montana are virtually identical to the same region in Canada - flat, not much to look at.
Gas is about $5 a gallon in Canada so crossing as late as possible may be of interest - maybe near Glacier Park - it is worth seeing.
If you do decide to cross all of North Dakota I would recommend using the interstate. The northern route (highway 2) will take you through the heart of the oil boom area.
Motel rooms are hard to get and the traffic is unusually heavy considering there is very little else out there. It is best to avoid the area. I 94 is clear.
How about a set of mud flaps? It's great that you're driving it. I am too. But, I still avoid gravel roads.
A set of mud flaps might keep you from missing something really cool on the trip of a life time. :shruggy:
Glacier is a great place with a cool road over the mountains called "the going to the sun road". You will need some time, but worth the effort. Going north out of there you cross into Canada and can go to Waterton Peace Park which is the north side of Glacier. Cool hotel there called the Prince of Wales. If you can stop there I am sure it would make for some cool shots with the bird.
Hi Taxspeaker!
It will be the trip of a lifetime! :yesnod:
I've done the ALCAN and Marine highway a few times with my last trip this past April when we moved to Florida, some input:
- Buy the Milepost® worth every cent. They publish it every year but getting it now is fine will help planning your trip
- Parts list previously suggested is fine. The time of year you're going the road will be busy so help isn't a problem
- Road condition should be OK, chance of a cracked windshield before you're done 30% each way. Surprisingly the dead of winter has the best road conditions...snow fills in all the pot holes and no rocks/pebbles :yesnod:
- May I Strongly, Strongly no really STRONGLY recommend you drive up and take the Alaska Marine Highway (ferry) back for a variety of reasons
-- The inner passage is Gorgeous! there are sights you just can't see on the ALCAN
-- The trip in an old car is going to be GRULING and after getting up there, no matter how enjoyable the drive up was you will
dread the trip back...trust me. The ferry is very relaxing and an excellent way to bring you epic journey to a close
-- No it's not cheap, but it is less than driving and paying for hotels, to say nothing of saving wear and tear and windshield
-- You'll dock in Bellingham WA, nice drive from that part of the country back home
- I have a LOT of MOPAR connections I can turn you on to before you go...you'll be well received, maybe even get you set up with a car show :2thumbs:
PM me with any questions or if you need any AK tour info, I'll make sure you're taken care of!
...Oh, did I mention taking the ferry?
AK
(https://scontent-a-atl.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xfa1/v/t1.0-9/10156098_10151982912207823_1833529579_n.jpg?oh=7fc8d4871a600a1dec074f6fc9c142ad&oe=54925F11)
(http://i129.photobucket.com/albums/p201/AKcharger_photos/72%20Charger/IMG_0526-1.jpg) (http://s129.photobucket.com/user/AKcharger_photos/media/72%20Charger/IMG_0526-1.jpg.html)
(http://i129.photobucket.com/albums/p201/AKcharger_photos/f89.jpg) (http://s129.photobucket.com/user/AKcharger_photos/media/f89.jpg.html)
Thanks for the advice. I will try to stay in US through Montana on I-94-never thought of gas prices or the oil trucks in North Dakota. I would love to do the marine highway, but it takes too long and is too expensive. The Milepost-yes I will buy it! Also excellent advice to allow time at stops for questions. I go to Alaska at least once a year for work, sometimes twice and appreciate the beauty, and if the car is holding up will drive down from Fairbanks to Anchorage then back from Anchorage with a possible side trip to either Valdez or Skagway. I've been in both and think Valdez might be a little prettier-both will be hard on the Bird but that's what the trip is for.
I have thought about the mudflaps and think I will go for the Dura Coat clear application to minimize rock damage.
On a different note, we are working on a logo and website for the trip. I would love for people to help choose the logo at http://99designs.com/logo-design/vote-wncnnt (it expires Sunday the 27th). Someone here apparently talked with some TV guy who wanted to do some kind of reality show on the trip using some of my personal history to sell it but I'm not doing this for money and told him to buzz off (or something close to that). That got me thinking about doing a journal on a website with pictures, making it a whole lot easier for me on the road to update things, thus the need for a logo. I have bought the website link www.SuperbirdNorth.com and will get it going in a moth or so.
Appreciate the advice and would love some guidance on what you guys think about engine oil weight and type.
Thanks
Bob J
Quote from: taxspeaker on September 26, 2014, 08:58:17 PM
Someone here apparently talked with some TV guy who wanted to do some kind of reality show on the trip using some of my personal history to sell it but I'm not doing this for money and told him to buzz off (or something close to that).
I'm a bit disappointed about that. It isn't as much of somebody doing it "for the money" as opposed to sharing it with many, many more people who don't necessarily visit Aero Cars forums and might not even know about these cars or what they did and can still do.
I certainly wouldn't begrudge taxspeaker or anybody who gets a bit of monetary compensation for something they're doing. If nothing else, it can offset any repairs or unforeseen expenses. Maybe even pay for the ferry trip on the way back?
I'm a bit mixed on that. I agree it would be a great thing for us all to see I can also understand not wanting a film crew following me.
"okay listen, we need you to hold off on going over to that town because the light will be perfect here a 3:22 and we have a schedule to keep, okay great, we need you to drive over that ridge again but try to look more dramatic and remember to utter that single cuss we asked for, I understand you had no intention of stopping here that long but we are paying for this and we need things the public will want" and so on. I've watched enough "reality" shows get filmed around old cars to know they'd pull that kind of stuff. :Twocents:
I like design 148. I think it would look better if the word "Superbird" was all in black and the word "north" was is blue. The inside of the wing could be switched to blue so that it is only two colors total.
As for oil, that can create a heated debate. I prefer Brad Penn, Penn Grade 1 20W-50.
http://www.penngrade1.com/zinc.aspx
440s generate a lot of heat. Enclose one in a Superbird front clip and the heat is ridiculous. You will probably find your hood pins too hot to touch at times. A racing/high quality oil will handle it.
Brennan
Any updates?
Well-we have decided on a logo-attached below I think. We will be using it on websites and I have ordered logo t shirts/baseball caps for the trip and to give as gifts along the way for helpful or friendly people.
I am flying every day right now until Christmas as the season ramps up so no time to work on things until then. We have a tentative itinerary established up to Fairbanks but kind of loose after that. We hope to get a website up and running right after Christmas that will allow me to post pictures, videos, update on mechanical progress and a log of the trip and pre-trip mechanical updates. I need to finish up some wiring on the Cuda to get it off the lift in the shop and move the Bird over, but all the overtime right now leaves only Saturdays off. I am thinking about stopping on the way back and dropping the car in Iowa to get it repainted for the first time at the end of the trip if I can remember who the guy is in Iowa that restores the Birds. I am still hoping that the fuel sending units are ready, and am having a little trouble finding the correct master cylinder. I want to replace the pads and shoes, rebuild or replace the calipers, cylinders and hoses, and replace the master cylinder since electrical and brakes are my 2 main concerns.
Here is the tentative itinerary:
February 28 complete all mechanical upgrades, local road test based on weather
Mid March 250 mile test round-trip road trip when weather is nice from Louisville to Illinois state line and back with follower in truck and trailer for problems.
Complete problem solving from any road trip issues May 15
Second test road trip, same route, mid to late May
Depart Louisville June 22 early morning to Grand Rapids, MI for work 370 miles
June 23rd depart Grand Rapids MI at 5 pm to Bay Harbor, MI for work 200 miles
June 25th depart Bay Harbor, MI at 1:30pm after work to DUluth MN 460 miles-pictures at Mackinak Bridge, use MN 210 through MN
June 26th depart Duluth to Glendive MT (minimum) 630 miles on I94 through North Dakota
June 27th depart Glendive to Calgary 640 miles on US 2 to I-15 north to Alberta 4 to Alberta 2
June 28th depart Calgary to Fort St John 600 miles on Alberta 2 and 43
June 29th depart Ft St John to Watson Lake 600 miles on Alaska highway
June 30 Watson Lake to Burwash Landing 400 miles
July 1 Burwash Landing to Fairbanks 400 miles
This also allows 1-3 days to stop wherever I want for car show, golf or fixing the car
July 2 or 3 Fairbanks to Anchorage 360 miles
July 4 Anchorage to valdez and then delta junction with return along same general route but staying in canada until north of minnesota
thanks-I will ask my son to post up pictures of the GoPro mount for the wing.
Bob J
I like it, you should make up t-shirts or something.
Factory correct master cylinders are getting hard to find. Try a quality reproduction and do not turn in your original as a core. The correct lids are scarce as well. Save yours.
Gas is $ 5.00 a gallon on average in Canada.
Firearms are not allowed in.
The whole mileage system is in kilometers ie metric as is most of the country except for hardware stores where lumber is sold in 2x4's etc.
Consult the Harrison auto event list for car shows in Canada west-
http://www.autoeventlist.com/
Here is an update of winter work:
We are still on schedule for June 22 departure from Louisville, Kentucky. Website is up at www.superbirdnorth.com but further development has been delayed for now, will restart on it in a month or so to ad a blog from me or my son Ryan and input/question areas from others, product sales, and interactive gps of car's location if possible.
Mechanical items are 80% completed in prep for trip- done to date:
-Complete brake job, master cylinder and bearing repacks
-Fuel pump, vapor separator hooked up, filter replaced, new fuel lines all from my old original new stock, new fuel tank
-Complete front end rebuild with all 4 new shocks
-Electronic ignition changeover with tune up, new coil, new wires (only non-stock change, kept original distributor)
-New mufflers replacing 45 year old originals, new exhaust manifold gaskets and heat stove to stock
-Replaced broken speedo cable, new BF goodrich tires
-Replaced all freeze plugs, leaking rear main replaced
-Replaced all heater, radiator hoses, water pump, rebuild radiator, rebuilt heater box, installed new super coolant additives
Mechanical in process or still to do:
-dash being removed this week to rebuild all gauges and isolate amp gauge with Dave Patek from club
-replace rear end lube with Brad Penn lube
-change oil with new Brad Penn 20w-50 oil
-repair radio antenna
-try to come up with fuel sending unit fix since the new ones on the board fell through
Mechanical goals I am hoping for completion by February 15
1st 240 mile round trip road test first nice weekend day feb 15-march 1. We will be running all cameras, go pro, solar power, etc
2nd 240 mile round trip road test in warm weather in late April or early may for final iron out in warm weather, again running both gopro cameras and all other systems
We have run into several issues with the GoPro wing mount and have had to re-design several time, but now ironed out. Ryan will be printing it on the 3d printer over the next several days in black-pictures to post by 1/15/15. We are also considering taking 1 of his drones to canada in the trunk to take aerial pictures-does anyone know if they can go across border or legal problems in canada?
I hope to keep the forum updated if there is any interest.
Once again thanks to everyone for all your suggestions
Bob J
Hey, way cool..you have to go through where I live before Fairbanks. I live in Wasilla. Would be great to meet up a fellow member. Message me and I'll get you my info for when you are here.
Mark
:popcrn:
I should be in bed but I can't sleep thanks to this odd cold my family gave me at Christmas...
What are the date codes on your 5 tires? Not tread life, but when they actually popped out of the mold. It's molded into the sidewall of the tires, as shown here:
http://www.tirerack.com/tires/tiretech/techpage.jsp?techid=11 (http://www.tirerack.com/tires/tiretech/techpage.jsp?techid=11)
Tires should be no more than 5 years old according to just about every manufacturer under the sun. Obviously I don't buy new tires on that schedule for our wing cars but they're not THAT much older and I'll think about ponying up for a new set before going to Talladega next time.
Next, post up what tools and diagnostic equipment you plan on taking. A number of us have road trip tool sets and I even have a wing car road trip toolbox with common crap in it. Examples: Caliper slide pin, 4' length of wire with alligator clips on each end to bypass the entire electrical system and power the coil directly, a butane powered soldering iron, a spare spark plug and coil wire, turn signal flasher, fusible link, cotter pins, zip ties, 4-5 different sealants and loctites, spare bulbs, etc.
Seriously consider one of these:
http://www.amazon.com/PowerAll-PBJS12000-R-All-In-One-Battery-Starter/dp/B00KSG4NGI (http://www.amazon.com/PowerAll-PBJS12000-R-All-In-One-Battery-Starter/dp/B00KSG4NGI)
I bought one last month at the MCACN show for like $85 as I'd heard good things about it. I work at a dealership, and I've already used it to jump start three cars. Unreal for something that can fit in your pocket. If you've got a funky alternator you can unplug the regulator and run the ignition system from this, so it can save you from being stranded. It'll charge your mobile devices like nothing, too--there are two USB ports in the side of it.
I'd also STRONGLY suggest another center section with 2.76 or 2.94 gears in it. Cruising speed will still be well above converter stall, and the reduced strain on the engine is good for both you and your car. It's MUCH quieter inside with a lot less vibration. Besides, an 8 3/4 center section takes all of an hour or two to replace...get an entire carrier and be done with it.
What do you plan on for entertainment? Books on tape/CD/MP3 make the miles go by a lot better. I've worn a pair of sound blocking earbuds (I paid like $80 for mine) and that also cuts down on the fatigue.
Another dumb item--a small spray bottle of water. You could mist down a hot radiator or something, but it also works great on cooling your legs and arms while driving. You're going pretty far north but stop and go isn't any more fun on your black buckets than it is on mine.
If your car looks as nice in person as it does in pictures, talk to a local tint shop or detailer about having the front end covered with a clear bra. It's a big, clear sticker that protects you from stone chips. Since a 'bird nose is a rather simple shape you shouldn't have to pay more than like $500 to get it covered up to/past the hood extension line. Ask for spare pieces and run them along the edges of your wheelwells and at the fronts of the rockers and quarter panels.
How old is your trunk seal? If you drive with the windows up and the vent open you can backdraft exhaust through a leaky one.
What did you decide to do with the brake calipers? If you're fairly certain they're the originals, park them on a shelf and get reman ones. I got a set through NAPA and they came coated in black, had new pins, and looked really nice. Change those, and for $5 worth of piece of mind take a caliper seal kit with you. You also mentioned DOT 4 brake fluid--did you mean that or DOT 5 silicone fluid? DOT 4 is backward compatible to 3, but silicone is its own monster.
OK I'm more tired now :lol:
Doug
I agree with others about changing the gear, no reason not to, you will save on fuel and be able to recoup your money that way.
I am one of the Canadian guys up in Saskatoon Sask Canada. If the route you are chosing I think you would go Minneapolis to Minot North Dakota entering Canada at North Portal Sask. It is a 24 hour port for entry into Canada. Then I suggest continuing on through Estevan Sask, Weyburn Sask ,Regina Sask and then to Saskatoon Sask. I have 3 Wingcars and would love to hook up with you in my city of Saskatoon. From Saskatoon then I suspect you will proceed to EdmontonAlberta.If in Saskatchewan I can probably get assisstance for you from local mopar guys if you need.
I might be able to get a few mopar guys together for an evening in Saskatoon. At present I have no idea of shows on your route through Canada.
Now for past experience here in Canada and North Dakota. Put a bug screen, not against the radiator , but mount it to the attachment bolts for the front grill intakes.North Dakota beween fargo and Minot have lots of little black bugs and these will completely change the color of your car to brown fuzzy. In sask we have a run on grasshoppers, so having screen in front keeps them out of the rad area.
To protect the nosecone use spray "Pam" no stick as it will help keep the bugs from drying on your paint. It is greasy but will washoff. Last to help in a pinch take some of the shrink wrap used for palletizing goods for transport. It will help protect in an emergency where roads are bad and rocks come flying.
PLease contact me and let me know your times through Saskatoon sask. My home phone is 306-242-0767(Kelvin Jones). I would like to meet you and see your car with 1 or 2 of my wingcars.
Regards Kelvin
Update, answers and pictures
Ok thanks for suggestions.
Tires were made 31st week of 2012, so good shape there.
I ordered and have received the all in one battery starter-excellent recommendation
Suggestion noted but not taken on rear end. I want to be as close to the way it was 45 years ago as possible, rear end and all so will stick with the 3:55
Brake calipers rebuilt and in good shape
Awaiting dash return from Dave Patek as final step, then ready for test run after new battery
I am trying to find a body shop for the clear bra, no one seems to do them around here, so I may have to resort to the self-applied cans
All the rubber and seals seem good, pliable and sealing.
Once we do the test trip in February I will know about any other issues.
As far as Saskatoon-right now our trip out will be south of that, possibly hitting it on the way home.
The GoPro mount for the tail wing is done. I have posted a cutout and a complete picture below. Should get one up in the next day or so of it mounted on wing. My son Ryan designed and made it with his 3d printer business after numerous modifications.
More to come in a few weeks after road trip.
Here are front, rear and side views of camera mount. The Go Pro will fit in the front with a clear overlay, and lift out at night. Room in the mount for extended battery pack.
If you are concerned about using the original cig lighter I would run a wire direct from the battery with a resettable fuse to a plug in 12v items.
If you don't want to do the Clear Bra, you can just use clear (or white) Plasti-dip. You can remove it after the trip very easiely. :Twocents:
Take it to any vinyl and/or sign shop and have a clear or white wrap put on the nose .
It'll peel back off with no paint issues later on .
enjoy the trip ,,still wish I was riding along
Update March 9
www.superbirdnorth.om
First let me sincerely thank everyone for the many comments you have made so far. I may not take every suggestion, but I read and consider them but more importantly appreciate them and this board. Thanks guys!
All mechanicals are now completed
Work schedule has held up gauge reinstallation but it will be done by the end of March-my work travel ends for a few weeks on March 25-the gauges are done and ready just not back in and I don't trust anybody but myself on that wiring. I have the driver bucket seat out and even an older guy like me can lay on his back for a couple of hours for the gauges. It just takes a little longer!
Our test road trip is scheduled for the first good weather day around March 30. We will be in full road trip mode with cameras, boxes of tools & parts everything as if going on to Alaska
We have made a slight travel itinerary change-in Midwest but nothing significant it will be on the website soon
The website will be updated (web lady says!) by April 15 allowing me to post blog, pictures, offer shirts & hats, interactive map and allow people to post their own comments and bring it up to date on the intinerary.
Of course being a checklist guy from my job, we have developed an "on the road" checklist for the trip, please feel free to comment:
Every day we will
-Note the starting time, mileage, city and comments on hotel/campground and people encountered
-Every stop we will note the location, time, mileage, cost, what occurred, significant sights or conversations
-At the end of the day we will note the time, location, mileage, etc.
-All of this will be backed up by 2 recordings-1 always on live dash cam, and 1 every taking a picture from the wing every 5 seconds. I hope to upload a log every night or so with pictures and have my son upload videos on the new website.
Here is our tentative list of items-feel free to comment, offer suggestions or whatever
Trunk Box 1-Liquids Trunk Box 2-Parts Trunk Box 3 Tools Back seat floor Driver Box 1
2-1 gallon 50/50 a/freeze 1 power steer belt Lug socket and 1/2" drive with extension Fire Extinguisher
2-1 gallon filled water 1 altern belt 3/8" socket set First aid kit
6 quarts Brad Penn oil Mopar elec ign box Phillips-1 stub, 1 long
Oil filter 2 large worm clamps Flat-1 stub, 1 long, 1 fine Back Seat No Box
2 cans brake fluid 2 medium worm clamps Ratchet screwdriver with changeable head Goalzero Power Unit
1 power steering fluid 2 small worm clamps Vise grips
2 quarts tran fluid Duct tape Needle nose pliers
2 tubes gasket sealer Coil Aluminum shop jack (special for the trip)
Can of flat fix Ballast resistor Flash Light-mag Front Dash
Cable Ties Voltage regulator open end wrench set Solar Charger plugged in to:
Cotter pins Fuses 2 jack stands Go Pro always on-suction mount
Electric tape AllNOne Battery starter GPS on left side portable mount
4 alligator clips
Trunk Box 4 30' wire-12& 14 gauges
Shirts, caps, bumper stickers Rubber for hose repair Console-top Back Package
Clothes & personal stuff twine Cell Phone on portable mount Solar charger
mechanic wire Drink holder Long USB extension to GPS
Electrical connectors
Fusible link Passenger Seat Back Wing
Extra Go Pro lucite covers CB Radio Go Pro Mount
Wire crimps Small cooler Go Pro 5 second camera with backpack battery
tire gauge Atlas
Checklist & Log with pen Console inside
Asstd packaged food/fruit 1 TB Hard drive backup
Laptop & charger Micro SD Cards
I know you are dead set on the 3.55 gears but keep in mind the Speed limit is 85 in Montana and with 3.55 gears you will be spinning 4000 RPM. I can't imagine doing that for hours... On the other hand getting passed by 18 wheelers and grandma in her Taurus continually wouldn't be much fun either. IJS
Back in the mid 90s I drove my bird to Columbus a few times, Carlisle and Talladega all from Chicago. I averaged 13-14 MPG at 65-70 with a 3.54 and always wanted a lower gear but with the Dana 60 it was not so easy.
That's a fairly well rounded list. :yesnod:
I just thought of a couple of things that could save some grief, maybe consider another spare ecu, coil, dizzy, voltage regulator, some spare leads & plugs, starter motor, alternator, gasket paper and water pump and some carb spares like needle & seat and the linkage clips
Based on your reference on your route to Canada. It is 15 hour drive time from Minneapolis to Saskatoon sask is 15 hours. In Rogers Minn there is the Ellingson Museum which is just west of Minneapolis. Good place to stop. In Watertown Minn just west and south of Rogers is Hooked on Classics. Might be a option even though off Hwy 15.
You are talking of entering Canada from North Dakota. If you do I think you will be coming through Saskatoon on the trip north. Keep me in mind if you are routing through Saskatoon . Kelvin
Quote from: Bob T on March 10, 2015, 02:54:06 AM
That's a fairly well rounded list. :yesnod:
I just thought of a couple of things that could save some grief, maybe consider another spare ecu, coil, dizzy, voltage regulator, some spare leads & plugs, starter motor, alternator, gasket paper and water pump and some carb spares like needle & seat and the linkage clips
To be safe, agree....
I would also include -
-voltage meter
-temp laser
-Spare plugs
-fender cover
-duct tape
-medium pry bar (in case)
Murfman thanks for the 13-14 mpg-I was hoping for 10-11 and kind of planning that way. It gives me a 200 mile range tops, and I plan on stopping every 100-150 miles for fillup and break.
After reading a couple of responses I am throwing in an extra water pump even though I just replaced it. I have 2 extras and there is plenty of room. Debating on the alternator but will probably throw one in anyway. Also added a knife and gasket material to the list-good suggestion and the knife is actually pretty critical.
I have revisited the route pretty strongly and have made this one early change. I am in Grand Rapids MI on June 22 working, I think I can get out of there by 3:30 and I no longer have to work out of Bay Harbor Michigan the next two days.it is a 1 hour drive to catch the Lake Michigan ferry over to Milwaukee and the last one leaves at 4:45 so I think I can make it. It would knock off 300 miles of brutal Chicago driving so I am going to reserve a spot on the ferry for the car and a trailer (I don't have a trailer but the car is longer than allowed!), get some good pictures on the ferry and then take it easy for the first 2 hours of the trip. Once I get into Milwaukee I will drive until dark and stop at someplace in Wisconsin or maybe the far side of Minneapolis since it will be the last super-sized city I have to deal with. Then on with the original plan.
Maybe a gas can just in case you run out. Or if you don't want to carry fuel a new gas can and a siphon hose to use if someone stops to help. :Twocents:
Also don't know if anyone mentioned but I would check all the connections especially the main red wire at the firewall bulkhead. Seen many poor connections there start melting/burning the plastic around it.
From Milwaukee, I would suggest looking at Madison for a hotel. It will be about 2 hour drive. From Madison to Woodbury (east side of St. Paul), it is a solid 4 hours from Madison going about 70.
I drive the route all the time, so can suggest a hotel if you need.
Quote from: taxspeaker on March 12, 2015, 09:19:56 AM
Murfman thanks for the 13-14 mpg-I was hoping for 10-11 and kind of planning that way. It gives me a 200 mile range tops, and I plan on stopping every 100-150 miles for fillup and break.
After reading a couple of responses I am throwing in an extra water pump even though I just replaced it. I have 2 extras and there is plenty of room. Debating on the alternator but will probably throw one in anyway. Also added a knife and gasket material to the list-good suggestion and the knife is actually pretty critical.
I have revisited the route pretty strongly and have made this one early change. I am in Grand Rapids MI on June 22 working, I think I can get out of there by 3:30 and I no longer have to work out of Bay Harbor Michigan the next two days.it is a 1 hour drive to catch the Lake Michigan ferry over to Milwaukee and the last one leaves at 4:45 so I think I can make it. It would knock off 300 miles of brutal Chicago driving so I am going to reserve a spot on the ferry for the car and a trailer (I don't have a trailer but the car is longer than allowed!), get some good pictures on the ferry and then take it easy for the first 2 hours of the trip. Once I get into Milwaukee I will drive until dark and stop at someplace in Wisconsin or maybe the far side of Minneapolis since it will be the last super-sized city I have to deal with. Then on with the original plan.
Definitely on the Ferry... It's a fun ride, especially with a Wing car, and by all means stay away from Chicago Traffic.
Sounds like it will be a great trip....... :2thumbs:
Quote from: murfman on March 13, 2015, 04:42:00 PM
Quote from: taxspeaker on March 12, 2015, 09:19:56 AM
Murfman thanks for the 13-14 mpg-I was hoping for 10-11 and kind of planning that way. It gives me a 200 mile range tops, and I plan on stopping every 100-150 miles for fillup and break.
After reading a couple of responses I am throwing in an extra water pump even though I just replaced it. I have 2 extras and there is plenty of room. Debating on the alternator but will probably throw one in anyway. Also added a knife and gasket material to the list-good suggestion and the knife is actually pretty critical.
I have revisited the route pretty strongly and have made this one early change. I am in Grand Rapids MI on June 22 working, I think I can get out of there by 3:30 and I no longer have to work out of Bay Harbor Michigan the next two days.it is a 1 hour drive to catch the Lake Michigan ferry over to Milwaukee and the last one leaves at 4:45 so I think I can make it. It would knock off 300 miles of brutal Chicago driving so I am going to reserve a spot on the ferry for the car and a trailer (I don't have a trailer but the car is longer than allowed!), get some good pictures on the ferry and then take it easy for the first 2 hours of the trip. Once I get into Milwaukee I will drive until dark and stop at someplace in Wisconsin or maybe the far side of Minneapolis since it will be the last super-sized city I have to deal with. Then on with the original plan.
Definitely on the Ferry... It's a fun ride, especially with a Wing car, and by all means stay away from Chicago Traffic.
I'd like to hear more about the ferry upon your return. It's on my list of "Charger Trips".
Need a little help please. Hagerty tells me for insurance to be good for entire trip the car must go to a couple of car shows. I have pm'd a couple of board members for help. Does anyone have a connection in Whitehorse Yukon around June 27 or 28, or anchorage thee next week?
Thanks
Quote from: taxspeaker on March 19, 2015, 09:57:12 AM
Need a little help please. Hagerty tells me for insurance to be good for entire trip the car must go to a couple of car shows. I have pm'd a couple of board members for help. Does anyone have a connection in Whitehorse Yukon around June 27 or 28, or anchorage thee next week?
Thanks
If you can't find a show, make a show...... Believe me, people will stare all day at the Superbird...... :icon_smile_big:
Our 250 mile road test is Tuesday March 31 At Noon. The weather is supposed to be 72 degrees and sunny.
We got everything back together and did a short 20 mile test drive Saturday, ironing out a few minor kinks, lubing the front suspension (can't believe I forgot that) and everything is now working other than the pesky fuel gauge which still tells me how much gas it feels lie telling me about rather than what's there.
We got a clear vinyl bra installed last Thursday over the nose, part of the hood and all down the sides. Other than making the flat black of the headlights glossy you cannot even tell it is there.
The first set of pictures are external shots fully loaded and ready for the 250 mile test on March 31. The external GoPro is mounted in the special bracket my son designed and printed on his 3d printer. It is extremely sturdy and well attached, yet easy to remove at night for safety, recharging and picture downloads. The camera inside the mount will take a shot every 5 seconds all day and has enough battery life and capacity for 2 full days. It has a clear plexiglass protective screen in front and I will have 2 extra clear panels. The bracket is polymer and is felt protected on the wing with a black micro-fiber cloth.
Here is a shot of the wing itself from behind with the GoPro mounted, aclose up of the mounted GoPro and a close up of the mounted camera.
Here is a shot of the solar panel in the rear package tray that will be used to charge the second GoPro inside the care that will be constantly filing all day. The second shot is of the always on GoPro-we mounted it on the passenger window originally as in the picture but have moved it to the vent window now to allow me to roll down the passenger window and to obstruct less view.
In one of my few relaxing of standards I removed the original wiper arms (and kept them) and put on new Bosch arms and blades.
This is the final set of pictures.
The first one is the interior driver's seat view. There is a solar panel in the front dash that has 2 USB ports to keep the GPS charged and to keep the cell phone or radio speaker battery charged. The GoPro on the inside window in the previous set of pictures is charged from the solar panel in the rear package tray. All solar panels worked today in testing and charged correctly.
The 2nd picture is of the interior seats. I bought a drink holder that fits between the console and passenger seat to hold the cell phone and a coke or coffee. On the console is an Am/FM/Weather radio hooked to an amplified speaker. You can't see it but there is also a hand held CB radio next to the drink tray. We may do a sat phone for 1 month-they aren't too expensive as long as you don't use actually use them and it will make my wife feel better.
The 3rd picture is of the box behind the driver seat with a fire extinguisher, first aid kit and assorted batteries and cables. I want to leave the back seat and passenger seat empty because my son is going to fly to Whitehorse Yukon and ride with me to Fairbanks, and just for more room.
The 4th picture is of the fully packed trunk. It has everything I could come up with except I will also have 2 1-gallon water jugs and I have now thrown an empty 5 gallon plastic gas can in there. There is still room for a sleeping bag and clothes.
Wish us luck. I have decided to do the test drive alone rather than a chase vehicle because that's how the Alaska trip is going to play out as well.
Go for it! :2thumbs:
It's going to be an epic trip and it looks as if you are very well prepared. My guess is all the spare stuff and tools are going to be just going along for the ride!
I will be looking forward with great anticipation to the daily progress reports and pictures!
Bob, something I hope you want need, but back when I used to do more car & parts chasing, I would have a rolled up ~6' section of clear carpet runner for if I ever had to crawl under on wet, dirt, or gravel.
(http://i898.photobucket.com/albums/ac190/thehemikid/Aero%20pics/road%20trip/plastic%20carpet%20runner%202_zpstjvkh5ak.png)
Oh man, this will be a nice trip.
I did a similar thing in 1996. I started in North Carolina for a 11 week trip. I come from Germany.
A rental car was way to expensive for 11 weeks. So I deceided to buy an old clunker at a car auction.
I only wanted and cheap car with a V8 in it. I got a ´84 Crown Vic for $ 650,-.
Drove all the way across the USA to Montana. Then Alberta, Northwest Territories, Yukon and finally to Alaska.
Don´t miss Jasper and Banff N.P. in Canada. And also the Denali N.P. in Alaska. Skagway is it worth too.
From there I drove all the way via British Columbia to Vancover. Then the costal Highway No1 to California.
Next was Nevada, Arizona, Utah, New Mexico, Texas and all the way back to North Carolina.
That was the best trip of my life. It was about 20000 miles.
I´m happy for you.
Mario
Thanks for comments and suggestions. I like the carpet runner idea and hope to not have to use it even though I may get one.
Here are the results of the test run yesterday-fully loaded as if ready to go to Alaska.
243 miles round trip with 1 stop at Flying J truck stop at turn around point. Average speed about 65 mph-speedo is reading about 6 mph faster than actual according to GPS and I drove about 72 per the speedo. Mileage 13.58 which was right in line with expected.
Broken parts, oil leaks, water leaks, oil consumption or problems of any kind-NONE everything was ok and all systems are go for June 22.
Some things I learned:
1. Take a roll of paper towels to check oil and if needed for messes.
2. Take a box of trash bags-didn't need them but many uses,
3. Hand held AM/FM radio is crap and boredom will set in. My original AM radio works fine but I am thinking about buying one of those modern AM/FM jobs that look original-has anyone bought one and do they work ok?
4. Handheld CB is crap. I have a magnet roof mount antenna but I think I will move the CB to the emergency box rather than use the antenna.
5. The front solar panel was fantastic and ran the GPS the entire trip without using its own internal batteries. The front solar panel has a 2nd USB out plug I could use for the phone if needed.
6. The tail mounted GoPro took over 1,500 pictures my son tells me and worked flawlessly. I am curious to see the results of the boring 240 mile drive in rural southern indiana.
7. The inside mounted GoPro-even with all the checklists this dumbass forgot to turn it on. Next time.
8. Fatigue, butt or back soreness-not an issue. Frankly the car drove like a dream.
9. Rubberneckers-lots of them. The best one (I hope Ryan has it on the GoPro) some guy passed me with his wife or girlfriend hanging out the passenger window at 70mph taking a cell phone picture with a very loose shirt! Literally dozens of honks, waves, thumbs up, yelling, etc. At one point 2 guys in an old beater Toyota pulled beside me at about 60 mph and revved up their ricer-I just shook my head at them.
10. As Brennan says above-at our one stop we were immediately in car discussions-that's fine and fun and it will break up the trip. We stopped for about 15 minutes for restroom, soda and just to let things cool down.
11. I have not determined that anything needs to be fixed other than maybe doing that temporary radio replacement-again I would like comments if anyone has bought one.
We now have taken everything out of the car and will detail it this weekend so we can do a car show or 3 in May and early June. I have talked to the website lady about getting the site ready for blogs, picture and video feeds, an interactive map and the ability to sell some T-shirts and stuff and she tells me about mid-April.
WOW, a really nice break-in run and, as far as people doing crazy things when they pass, you ain't seen nothin' yet!! The carpet runner sounds like a great idea and it wouldn't take up much space or weigh much of anything.
No suggestions on the radio but, I don't think I would convert the original to modern stuff. Get yourself a boom box with a cd player and make do. I know it is a long trip but ... make a boom box work.
ALMOST 14 mpg isn't bad but a 2.73 rear might be a consideration. Probably make a big difference in MPG.
Waiting for the real trip and it looks like it will be awesome!
Here is the first shot from the tail mounted GoPro leaving the shop for the test drive.
Also here is a link to the time lapse (1 minute 40 seconds) of the entire trip.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TcVVwlGd-bk&feature=youtu.be
Best minute and 40 seconds I've spent all day! :icon_smile_big:
:2thumbs: :2thumbs: :2thumbs: :2thumbs: :2thumbs:
Hey, right on can't wait to meet up with you here. PM me & I'll give you my cell #. I'm in Wasilla,Alaska it's on your way to Fairbanks. It's 5 hrs from here, unless your driving a mopar, haha.
Mark
Video cool...but didn't see the chicks :rotz:
OK the web site lady now tells me the www.superbirdnorth.com website is active. They figured out some GPS thing to always show where the car is via my cell phone-not sure how that will work when I am flying, but phone is off then!Rather than continue to take up this board I will be posting updates on there to avoid member complaints here. I did contact the Dodge dealer in Whitehorse Yukon to see about a car show but never even got a response. I am going to send them a letter too
Cool Idea for a website and following your trip, I just bookmarked it!
:2thumbs:
Pack your 9mm, baseball bat, and any other item in case you come across some whack job also....
Quote from: 1970Moparmann on April 25, 2015, 07:02:19 PM
Pack your 9mm, baseball bat, and any other item in case you come across some whack job also....
Bad Advice! Do NOT pack any pistol or ammunition into Canada! Your trip will be over in a hurry if you get caught!
A baseball bat and a glove :yesnod: is pretty good advice and I might even consider a fish-billy and a fishing pole. Just do not get caught trying to bring a pistol into Canada.
Quote from: charge69 on April 25, 2015, 07:20:59 PM
Quote from: 1970Moparmann on April 25, 2015, 07:02:19 PM
Pack your 9mm, baseball bat, and any other item in case you come across some whack job also....
Bad Advice! Do NOT pack any pistol or ammunition into Canada! Your trip will be over in a hurry if you get caught!
A baseball bat and a glove :yesnod: is pretty good advice and I might even consider a fish-billy and a fishing pole. Just do not get caught trying to bring a pistol into Canada.
Yes, no 9mm. I prefer a claw hammer. It can be effective from inside the car. It Will leave a mark. And it has a great deal of plausible deniability.
Quote from: taxspeaker on April 14, 2015, 09:46:32 AM
OK the web site lady now tells me the www.superbirdnorth.com website is active. They figured out some GPS thing to always show where the car is via my cell phone-not sure how that will work when I am flying, but phone is off then!Rather than continue to take up this board I will be posting updates on there to avoid member complaints here. I did contact the Dodge dealer in Whitehorse Yukon to see about a car show but never even got a response. I am going to send them a letter too
Cool site. I'm really glad to see guys driving these things. :coolgleamA: You should have a great time on this trip! Good luck :2thumbs:
Thanks-never actually considered the pistol! The fishing pole is also a good idea-the hammer is right behind me on the floor while driving in case of a problem with the car.
Bob
people are friendly up there you'll be fine, just avoid Baltimore and St. Louis :icon_smile_big:
I'm a guy that likes to fly under the radar in most cases. Obviously you don't want to pack a gun unless you have the 35 state concealed permit and then you can give to someone in the US before you go over the boarder.
I'm sure that I can speak to almost everyone on this site - awesome idea, we will be following you on this amazing journey, and hope you have a safe trip! I hope you have a bunch of "check in" points so the DC.com guys can get a case of whipass out in case we need to!!
This is a journey of a life time and hope that your trip goes without an issue!
Very cool! I just did two short road trips in my A12 Bee one to Vegas for the Mopars at the Strip and a second one to Spring Fling in Van nuys Ca. I put just over 1000 miles on it. You guys will have a great time! :2thumbs:
Down to about 4 weeks now from the short pleasure trip to Fairbanks and Anchorage. I have been reading "MilePost" which is a guide to the Alaska highway with great interest the last few days and it reminded me to check a few more things like the windshield washer system and cigarette lighter element-both of which are fine and functioning.
Here is tonight's update from the www.superbirdnorth.com post. I have put several other posts over there but figured the mechanical issues might be of interest here-I don't want to bore everyone with some of the other stuff. On a positive note I have now talked with MetroDodge in Whitehorse, Yukon and they have offered me full use of their shop for any needed mechanical repairs I need to make-very very generous offer. I am still desperately looking for a car show to attend somewhere along the trip. I will be taking a bunch of SuperBird North T-shirts and baseball hats to give away to selected interested folks and thinking about some bumper stickers too. I will have a scanner app with me to scan in any contact info, and I am taking one of my old "Hemi Yes" license plates from my old CHarger to post in the Milepost Forest way up at Watson Lake Yukon. I have also decided if the car is running well I am going to drive it an extra 200 miles from WHitehorse down into Skagway Alaska if the trip doesn't seem to much. I have driven that road before twice and the scenery is incredible although the mountain pass scares me in the Bird. If I can do it I want a picture of the Bird with a crusie ship behind it, the SKagway sign and the glaciers all in one shot. My son suggested that I try to show the Bird's VIN in a few of the pictures to prve it really did the trip-good idea but I am not sure how to do it-I suppose vehicle registration would work just as well with car in the background
Here is the update:
We had to move the Superbird this weekend to a new home at our house with the sale of our shop. In the move we have found a small oil leak which I will investigate this weekend. Hopefully just a minor thing as a result of last weekend's oil change. The Brad Penn 20w50 synthetic oil is a distinctive green color and was hard to miss on the floor of the shop, so I want to look a bit further.
After reading a book or two about the trip that have been recommended to me I tested the windshield washer system and found that one of the nozzles had rusted through from 35 years of non-use. New ones should arrive Friday and will be installed this weekend.
On Sunday we pre-packed the Bird for the trip. It now has all the extra parts, tools and safety gear loaded, the front dash solar panel is back on and ready to plug in to the GPS. The passenger side vent window will have an interior always on GoPro camera plugged in to the secondary solar output via a long USB cable. In the back seat I have an auxiliary Goal Zero power center which can provide needed backup power for any 12volt or 110 volt item for a day or so in an emergency. In the back speaker deck we have mounted a second solar panel that will charge the backup battery for the tail mounted GoPro.
I have a short list of things I still need that I will pick up this weekend and load: box of trash bags, bug spray, paper towels, a good knife, a small medical kit, a road atlas and a sleeping bag. There is still enough room in the trunk for my roll-on suitcase even after a late addition of a small pup tent and a couple of other things.
My son Ryan is once again re-doing the tail mount for the GoPro out there so that it is easier for me to unhook it at night for safety, battery change and data dump.
We have had one significant improvement in plans. I had planned on using my IPhone for pictures, but I wanted more. Ryan has decided to fly in to Fairbanks or possibly Whitehorse and bring his drone and GoPro to film the car in various spots on the drive. He also has given me some strict orders for picture requirements!
Thanks to everyone at www.dodgecharger.com for the many suggestions-what a fantastic group of guys, MetroDodge in Whitehorse Yukon for the offer of their shop and the Indiana State Police for the travel advice and phone numbers. More to come!
Looking forward to following your awesome journey!
When are you going to be in Anchorage again, perhaps we can meet for lunch? I'll be there through June 22nd
Looks like Anchorage on the 29th with luck but more likely on the 30th of June
If you spot a 15" trim ring for a Rallye wheel in a ditch close to Tok, Alaska, it has been missing since June 2003.
Will you be going through Wyoming at all when you go from MT to CO.
If so it will be the eastern edge of the state
Take a pump shotgun.
I live in Gillette WY not far from Devils Tower if you come through I would love to see the Superbird!
Will know in a few weeks! Will pm you 2 days before-somewhere around July 6
An update-the minor oil leak mentioned 2 weeks ago was simply the oil pan drain plug needed one more turn. I rain-x'd the windows today (the car is in my home garage out of the elements) because I know there will be a lot of rain on the trip. We did replace (and keep) the original aerodynamic wiper blades with temporary Bosch rain blades for the trip.
Only other update is for the tail mounted GoPro. Ryan has redesigned and reprinted with the 3-D printer the mount to make it easier for me to pull the camera and battery every evening.
I have double-checked the mechanical supply list, added a clear carpet runner and another electronic ignition module to the parts store. I wish I had changed the fuel filter one more time before I lost the lift in the shop we just sold, but didn't get done.
Mechanical weaknesses that are in the back of my mind-fuel system even though it is a 100% new tank, lines, filter, pump and rebuilt carb, it is just finicky; rear inner wheel bearings just because; brakes-even though fully rebuilt I did not do anything with the power booster; and the electrical system because it is 45 years old.
Will have one last post a few days before the trip. The entire duration of the trip, sadly, is based on the afternoon of June 23rd. I am working in Grand Rapids until 3:30 and have to drive 56 miles to Muskegon MI to catch the Lake Express ferry, so there is no room for error there. My backup plan options are to spend the night in Muskegon and try for the early morning ferry the next day, or drive up to Ludington and try for the 8:45 pm ferry that gets to Wisconsin at 11:30; or drive south around and through Chicago, or drive north and cross at Mackinaw Island through Michigan's upper peninsula. I am leaning towards the next morning ferry backup plan. but open to comments.
We ordered a satellite phone this week for a 1 month rental for about $180, plus usage-it gives peace of mind to family members! I only pay for outgoing calls and can receive calls and texts for free-number available if you want it.
Sounds good! :cheers:
There are a lot of members I'm sure that will provide a hand if need be. I'm in a suburb of Chicago, so if anything comes up if you decide to drive through Chi-town, feel free to let me know.
Thanks Mike. After looking at maps and schedule if I miss the 4:45 ferry I will head south around Lake Michigan through Chicago and then on up to Wisconsin dells for the 2nd night. Won't know until 4:45 on the 23rd when the ferry leaves!
Good Luck
We exchanged emails last year, as I drove my '13 Challenger from Vermont to Fairbanks and back (15,000 miles; 10 weeks). I had an incredible adventure and I know you will too.
Have fun, be safe and watch out for moose!
VT Mopar
Indiana allows you to pay a $37 fee to get "Year of Manufacture" plates attached for use as your regular license plate. I just got mine approved today, just in tome for the road trip. The previous plate "70SBird" will be posted in the license plate sign forest at Watson Lake Yukon Territory in a few weeks.
hey. I'm in Wasilla,Alaska it's on your way to Fairbanks. Be great to meet up & talk mopars over lunch or quick dinner. PM for my cell #.
Mark
Done
Thanks Mark-11 days from start-I am watching the tundra fires in Yukon but they don't seem to be at the highway yet. The fires at Tok appear to be out from what I can tell
Quote from: taxspeaker on May 31, 2015, 09:21:30 AM
Thanks Mike. After looking at maps and schedule if I miss the 4:45 ferry I will head south around Lake Michigan through Chicago and then on up to Wisconsin dells for the 2nd night. Won't know until 4:45 on the 23rd when the ferry leaves!
Be sure to time your trip and route through Chicago carefully. Traffic is ALWAYS backed up, but the rush hours are worse.
Good luck and have a great trip!
Hey right on. Hopefully while you visit here I will be able to show you another Superbird not far from my shop.
Note: The detailed post and pictures/GPS location will be at www.superbirdnorth.com
Well, planning and preparation is complete. I am completing my last work trip coming home from a Tucson/Spokane/Baltimore travel week and when I get home tonight I will buy the 1 last thing that is still missing from the list. At the Atlanta airport today during changeover I will exchange for some Canadian money. On Sunday we will remount the tail mounted GoPro video camera, as well as the inside mounted GoPro video camera, load up the quadcopter drone in its new case, and do one last check ride. Departure scheduled for Monday around 11:00am.
I met with a friend from Fairbanks on Thursday (thanks Bernadette) who did warn me about border issues with the old car coming in to Alaska, and then another friend in Tucson yesterday who discussed the fires. As far as border issues-other than curiosity regarding the car I just don't see an issue there unless cars with 6′ wings aren't allowed into Canada! I am crossing midway in North Dakota early Thursday morning, so I will find out there. As far as tundra/forest fires I will keep track from Whitehorse and either bypass Fairbanks on the outbound trip to avoid them and go directly via the cutoff to Anchorage or continue as planned.
I will make one last post as I leave on Monday and then post in the evenings as possible. Pictures and videos will be sent to Ryan to upload as he sees fit. I do have a satellite phone now and will provide that number to anyone that PM's me but it is $7 per minute to call it. I believe text messages are free but cannot verify that without re-reading the user guide.
Thanks to everyone for the messages of encouragement and support-particularly my friends from Iceland from my old days there at the NATO Keflavik Air Station!-Lars you are quite the friend after 30+ years. And anyone who knows my wife tell her it will be ok!
Bob
Bob Jennings
Trip started at 11:00am today. 400 miles done out of 8,000. Hotter outside than an oven and a black interior with high humidity reminded me why I got air conditioning. Coming days should be cooler as I get north. No real issues today but the GoPro took lots of pictures and the other GoPro filmed the whole thing. I have 75 minutes to make a 56 mile drive tomorrow to make a ferry across Lake Michigan and avoid routing through Chicago, but once in WIsconsin Tuesday night clear sailing. Had a scare on oil usage but I think I just misread the stick. Details on the other website. Will hopefully post picture on the Lake Express ferry tomorrow night if I can make it.
I am in northwest Wisconsin about an hour north of 94 and 2 hours east of twin cities metro.
If you need resources along the way, send a PM.
good luck!
Have a fantastic time! I'll be cruising up the inland passage (Royal Caribbean) from Vancouver to Anchorage about the same time you will be making your way up! As I look over the beautiful coast I'll be thinking good thoughts for you and your journey. Want to trade trips? ;)
I'll be at the Anchorage Downtown Marriott on July 3rd, and the Talkeetna Alaskan Lodge on the 4th if you want/need an attaboy. I'll look for you in Anchorage, with a cold beer kept near.
Dan
Well overheated on Dan Ryan expresswY in downtown Chicago sitting on side of road. Just letting it cool down until bumper to bumper traffic is gone
After 3 hours of stop and go, needing gas, overheating, and more I finally got out of this miserable place! On the other hand so far this has been a fantastic trip. The day's log is posted on the other website, here is a picture on the Dan Ryan in Chicago at 6:15 pm. Minor oil consumption and fuel leak at fill up but no issues enough to stop things.
I am Kelvin in Saskatoon Sask Cda. You can e-mail me if you cross to Canada. I am on different shifts but will do some way to catch up to you.
Quote from: taxspeaker on June 23, 2015, 06:01:41 PM
Well overheated on Dan Ryan expresswY in downtown Chicago sitting on side of road. Just letting it cool down until bumper to bumper traffic is gone
I feel your pain... There's one thing I hate living in Houston is it takes forever to get anywhere and on ANY given day, you're bound to hit bumper to bumper traffic. My Daytona doesn't particularly like it............ Glad to read you were able to just chill out and press forward........ :2thumbs:
Quote from: taxspeaker on June 23, 2015, 11:15:45 PM
After 3 hours of stop and go, needing gas, overheating, and more I finally got out of this miserable place! On the other hand so far this has been a fantastic trip. The day's log is posted on the other website, here is a picture on the Dan Ryan in Chicago at 6:15 pm. Minor oil consumption and fuel leak at fill up but no issues enough to stop things.
I spent last night in brandon Manitoba Canada tonight in Saskatoon do you still think you will make Saskatoon tommorrow
Yes on schedule for tomorrow
Looks like 1:00 pm-how does that fit?
Quote from: taxspeaker on June 24, 2015, 09:09:16 AM
Looks like 1:00 pm-how does that fit?
I can definitely do that my bird was not cooperative so am in a rental
can you email me a phone number so we can workout where to meet up
remember I am heading south so earlier the better but I really do want to see your car and take about it
trevor
Hey Bob,
I sent you a message but will post here as well. I am in the Bismarck area. I am not sure which route you are taking to get to Minot but if you go north out of Bismarck on Highway 83 I will probably be in the area. If you have any issues I know Mopar people around the State.
My phone number is 701-226-4192
Brennan
Trevor my cell is 502-552-5161
I will be stopping tonite in Minot about 6 hours south
I keep frying ecm's but now only 100 miles from Fargo
There is a live map on www.superbirdnorth.com
Thanks
Bob
Hey Bob, I am with you in spirit , what you are doing is so awesome!!!! :2thumbs:
Today represented the biggest mileage date planned for the trip with about 780 miles covered. After stopping yesterday evening in Madison, WI, I ate at the Hampton, checked all fluids, belts, tires and made a visual check of the car. I then reinstalled the GoPro cameras. I was able to get the tail camera working after talking with Ryan (takes a picture every 5 seconds), but again the always on video camera recorded nothing. I filled up at a nearby gas station and got rolling around 7:15. About 9:15 I saw my first bear=-about 25 miles east of Eau Claire, WI-dead on the side of the road. No question it was a bear though. I have now traveled 1614 miles since Monday morning and arrived at Minot hotel at 9:45 pm as planned, just a bit later.
Mechanical-oil consumption is averaging about 1 quart per 400 miles. I am not pleased with that, but it is not getting worse, and with the rear end gears the car's mighty 440 engine is turning over 3,000 RPM's at 65 mph, so I can live with it. I didn't bring that much of the special oil though, so I will have to stop at a car parts place and see what I can find. There are no other fluid leaks (or issues), belts, tires and visual inspection looks good. Water temp is good except that Chicago mess.
I hit a huge thunderstorm outside of Fargo-no leaks but I have determined that the wiper arms are both mounted 2 notches too high-if I ever get somewhere with an arm removal tool I will quickly fix them.
I blew the radio speaker out with the new radio trying to hear it above the road-so no radio for 8,000 miles. Ryan told me about an app I can listen to on the phone if I have cell service.
After my 2nd fill up this morning when I got back on the highway the car died. I steered to the side with no power steering or brakes, thought about it a minute and replaced the electronic control module, which solved the problem. Then after the next fill up I hit the highway and the same thing happened. It is too much of a coincidence to have 2 fail. The engine compartment heat is so high that it is overheating the ECM's I thought, so I just swapped out the cooled one from the previous incident-fixed! Now I am swapping the ECM's at each stop-not a big issue, but frankly I need to move where it is mounted on the firewall and cannot do that until the trip is over because of wiring changes. Maybe in Canada it will not be as hot. Interesting that the 2 real mechanical issues are coming from modern stuff rather than 45 year old stuff.
Mileage is still averaging around 13-13.5 MPG. Weather was pleasant in the morning around 65-mid 80's during 11-3:00, then comfortable again after the storm. I got pictures for the 1,000 mile odometer reading and at the Fargo Moorhead visitor center. Picture takers, movie makers, honkers were beyond count and I have had 1 guy call it a Firebird, 2 guys a Road Runner and 1 guy who said he had one without a vinyl top. (Interesting since they ALL had vinyl tops). This is fun. After 3 tough days I still love this car. What do I miss most about the newer ones? In order: cruise control, comfortable seats, A/C and sound system.
Early start tomorrow-I am hopefully crossing the border with no issues then another 700 mile day. I am supposed to meet Trevor in Saskatoon who also has a Superbird-he wants to see the car and talk and I can hopefully be there by 1:00pm with a 6:30 start. Scenery again won't be much until Friday. My anniversary is tomorrow too, so I will be sure to call my wife. Thanks for reading, Bob You can see the live location at all times when there is cell service at www.superbirdnorth.com
epic adventure. thanks for taking us all along
I stayed in brandon last night am in Saskatoon tonight brandon to here was a bit slower than I expected lots of road buiding in Canada and the speed limits are lower
I met up with trevor in Saskatoon. Give me a call and I will meet you with a Daytona. Kelvin 306-491-7047
Will do-border crossing in 15 miles hopefully no slow down
:2thumbs:
Quote from: taxspeaker on June 25, 2015, 08:06:54 AM
Will do-border crossing in 15 miles hopefully no slow down
sorry I missed you but having done what I came for yesterday and waking up early unprompted I decided batter to start the drive back to ls angeles earlier so I could break it into four legs instead of three and have a bit of time each day for sightseeing
Had to drive an Isuzu NPR with no radio 1800 miles. Grabbed a modern RadioShack version of the good old handheld transistor radio, some clearance sale earbuds and some batteries. $18 later I was on the road with tunes.
Safe travels!
First-once again thanks to everyone for the kind comments and suggestions. I have given up on the radio-where I am going tomorrow there is no radio and worst comes to worst I can turn on the phone app. Here is the update
First both GoPros worked today, should be some great shots of the car show in Saskatoon! Second, I saw the first "Moose Crossing" warnings, but there were no moose reading those signs when I drove by, so they didn't cross today. Maybe tomorrow. Here is the rest:
The Superbird & I have now traveled nearly 2,500 miles. There are about 1800 miles left to Fairbanks, 375 from there to Anchorage and then about 4,000 home from Anchorage-maybe more depending on the route and side trips. We traveled 750 miles together today.
Our day began at 5:45 am with breakfast, loading up and vehicle check. We were rolling by 6:40am out of Minot. Before I even left Minot the President of the Minot (Dan) car club was waiting to get pictures of the Bird and ask me to stay for a meet that evening, begging forgiveness I explained I could not do that, but might be returning the same route and would email him a day or so in advance. Then on 90 miles to the North port of entry to Canada-customs were no problem-30 or 40 questions and on my way. Entering Saskatchewan I was struck by the ugliness of the strip mining just destroying the land. The people however in the entire province were the absolute, consistently the nicest people yet on this trip.
On to Saskatoon-I try to get 150-190 miles before stopping for gas. The necessity of changing the ECM every stop is not a huge issue, but since the gas tank leaks at fill up I have to clean the windows and gopro cover, pop the hood and let it cool, check the oil, then run to the restroom and soda/water and then put the swapped ecm in before filling up and leaving. It makes the stops long. The heat issue has become a big concern-I know it is affecting the car and it makes me sleepy as well in the afternoon in the black interior with all the greenhouse glass of the Bird, particularly with no radio. Hopefully as I continue north it will cool down (please). Coffe doesn't do it when its 100 degrees in the car!
Kelvin from Saskatoon and I texted back and forth and setup an impromptu car show in Saskatoon-he brought his red 69 Dodge Daytona (white stripes & interior-beautiful!), and his friends Robert, Chuck and Remi brought a 66 Generation 1 Charger, a new Hemi Challenger and a Mustang. His other friend owns an RCMP police mustang and came, along with his daughter and friend, and another guy with a Challenger came as well. What a swell bunch of guys-I gave everyone a shirt or hat or mug, we took dozens of pictures and swapped a few stories-interesting story about the car chase and bullet hole in Kelvin's Daytona from back in the day! The Saskatoon TV station wanted to put us on TV but we couldn't work out the time today. If I go back the same route we will set it up in advance. I was there about an hour and a half and when leaving got stuck in traffic again and was pushing the overheat envelope again like CHicago. Lots of pictures that Kelvin said he would get to me when he can and post on the Dodge Charger website
With the exception of the stop in Saskatoon today was the most boring drive-it reminded me of Kansas only greener, and if possible flatter. A funny thing happened as I crossed into Alberta at LLoydminister-the people were noticeably unfriendly-I waved at several old cars who looked at me, with no response, and had a slight altercation with some jerk at the gas station who wanted a ride to Edmonton and then got upset when I refused. Other than these 2 very minor issues every single person for 2,500 miles has been pleasant. Today, if possible, the interest in the car was twice as much as yesterday, maybe 3 times as much-they love Mopars here!
Mechanical issues-same ECM issue,but no water or fluid issues. However the oil pressure was a little low and fluctuating a bit for the last 75 miles and I want to watch that very very closely tomorrow. I am hoping it is a combination of very high ambient air temperatures and being 1/2 quart low.l I may get the oil changed thinking maybe the filter is clogging up with old varnish from this engine, and since I am now out of the special 20W50 high Zinc Brad Penn oil it would not hurt.
The solar panel in the back deck keeps a trickle charge on the battery for the GoPro, but the one in the front is not putting out enough power so I put it in the trunk.The GPS tracking has worked perfectly but may become spotty on Friday as I start going in and out of cell coverage. Tomorrow the scenery should pick up and I hope to stop several times for pictures. It is a 600 mile day, but I plan on getting a later start to avoid Edmonton traffic, and since it stays daylight really late. I had an incorrect assumption on the Bird's headlights-I always assumed they were really bad, but they aren't that bad at all. I would not want much driving in the dark but they are acceptable for 45-90 minutes I think
Keep reading, keep suggesting, drop me a text or call! The picture is from a bridge in some little town at the top of North Dakota
Bob
Kelvin owns 2 Daytonas this one with a white stripe, the other with a red stripe. He also owns a Superbird. Here is the one Daytona at the meet
What a fantastic journey. Glad all of your challenges have been manageable.
What ratio of water to coolant are you running? You can run more water than 50/50 in the summer.
Any other additives, like "water wetter"?
You hit the Dan (Dam) Ryan in Chicago at the worst time possible.
This all sounds so familiar lol. The heat, the car, the experience. Glad it is working. I think the small ND town may be Max. If it is, that is a weird coincidence because the sheriff of Max owns a Superbird (or at least used to - i haven't spoken with him in years) I used to paint and inspect water towers so I tend to store them in memory and the one in the photo looks familiar.
Enjoy :)
I googled based on Bob's route on his Superbird North site along hwy 52 and found this at Flaxton ND.
https://www.google.com/maps/@48.894272,-102.390313,3a,75y,335.19h,90t/data=!3m6!1e1!3m4!1sseT-azlBIuasMP1w1ZkIvg!2e0!7i3328!8i1664
Must be an Awesome trip to say the least!
Can't blame a man for wanting a ride in a Superbird to anywhere,...lol,...but I'm with you on than decision.
I was looking at your gps trail at Lloydminister Yesterday before I read your post about it. It may be a coincident but you left a big "L" at Lloyd. :lol: Zoomed in closer and noticed a squiggly knot at the end of the "L". Zoomed in some more a noticed it was at a gas station. So I though of a funny "That gas pump must of been quite elusive"
Then I read your post on the man wanting a ride, and the elusive pump funny changed to the you eluding the hitcher while trying to fill up. :smilielol:
Edit: Well! that Google save didn't work to well! :lol: I'll try again.
https://www.google.com/maps/@48.894272,-102.390313,3a,75y,335.19h,90t/data=!3m6!1e1!3m4!1sseT-azlBIuasMP1w1ZkIvg!2e0!7i3328!8i1664
Edit II: I can't get my Google map to link right so I'll just screen grab.
(http://i898.photobucket.com/albums/ac190/thehemikid/Aero%20pics/Wing%20Cars/3.3%20Flaxton%20ND%20Google_zpsdpaouoex.png)
Pictures to follow from Saskatoon. We would have liked more time here but maybe on return.
Bob a friend said put a washer between the ECM and firewall. It will allow airflow.
Will followup Kelvin
Just don't book a flight of ten on your first solo flight.
Your next several hundred miles will be some of the most scenic..... and toughest. A year ago, I nearly ran into some Bison, Carbeau and a bear.... And some construction... Keep your eyes pealed. Also, this stretch (until you get to Whitehorse) is the most scarce for fuel stops.....
You're having a great adventure.... ENJOY!
Doug
Vt Mopar
Short post-hard day arriving after 2am EDT in Ft Nelson.
I thought today would be easier so I worked out and answered all my work emails and handled some business before getting rolling about 8:45 out of Edmonton Alberta. Traveled over 3,200 total miles now, over 750 today.Scenery slowly changed and I went through 1 small mountain range before Grande Prarie, then after leaving Dawson Creek another steady set of ever increasing hills, huge vistas of sweeping river valleys and verdant pine forests for tens of miles. Cars disappeared after Fort St John dropping to one every 15-20 minutes as I came north and not seeing any car for the last 45 minutes before Fort Nelson. I saw my first moose before Grande Prarie, but dead on the side. Signs everywhere for moose, wild horses and buffalo but no visual yet. Tomorrow will change that as I get even more remote. I now see a real mountain range off to the west. Unhappily because of below issue I took few pictures other than the 10,000 with the GoPros.
Mechanical issues-I determined the oil pressure fluctuation was caused by heat and oil becoming worn and stopped worrying about it-it has never dropped below 20psi anyway. However, another issue arose with another aftermarket part. My new fuel tank from YearOne split at the vent outlet tube and was pouring gas out at fill up and driving-to the point of danger. I limped into Dawson Creek to Inland Chrysler since with all my spare parts I did not bring a spare gas tank. The service manager Blane took over, and Ty from the shop said he would stay Friday afternoon and the Dave took the job under his wing. After several efforts we finally got it epoxied, and straightened out the misaligned fuel tank sending unit gasket and 3 hours later I was rolling again. Problem fixed thanks to the great guys at Inland Chrysler in Dawson Creek, BC! So 3 issues have occurred mechanically-none of them from the original 45 year old car, just from aftermarket garbage
The problem now was I had 300 miles to drive on Friday night and no one was sure if the 2 gas stations were open after Ft St John. I filled up there which left 250 miles to here, thinking maybe worst case I might be able to coax 250 miles out of a tank. The hills and my foot ruined that idea, but luckily one of the only 2 stations-at Pink Mountain-was open, so it was just a matter of staying awake to get in. Luckily it stayed daylight until around 10:30, so I got in just as it finally got dark. ECM issues have stopped as the ambient air temperature has dropped
I finally got on the Alaska Highway at 5:30 tonight so it is real-should be lots of GoPro pictures. Tomorrow I will supplement with pictures from my phone and hopefully post some tomorrow night.
Highway conditions usually ok but I am now hitting patches of gravel. The public attention to the car is beyond description-I had a family follow me for 20- miles taking video and then talking at the gas station. How many now-it would be in the multiple dozens today since no one has ever seen one here. Inland Chrysler had multiple videos taken, mechanics that had gone home for the day came back to see it and we got lots of shop pictures. The car is a star, the older guy is just a passenger in the drivers seat.
Bottom line-Chrysler built one heck of a car 45 years ago, and even if it dies tomorrow, it has met all my expectations, the trip has been extraordinary and the scenery starts tomorrow!. Sadly, although I have hauled the drone with me, Ryan was unable to get away to do this once in a lifetime trip with his dad, but I will look at the drone tomorrow and probably try to fly it-never mind that is a really bad idea.
Hopefully pictures tomorrow. On to Whitehorse
What is the price of gas in Canada.? I heard that it is twice the price. :brickwall:
$1.09/litre for regular, probably $1.38 for premium (ethanol free) here in Ontario.... should be cheaper out West.
3.785 litres to a US gallon. So 1.38 x 3.785= 5.22 Cdn a gallon x .81 = $4.23 US / US gallon.
From Whitehorse Yukon
June 27, 2015 Trip Log
We left Ft Nelson, British Columbia around 7:45 am and traveled a little over 625 miles during the day, now covering about 3,800 miles so far on the trip. Arrived at Whitehorse, Yukon Territory about 8:45pm last night. I stopped 20-30 times during the day for pictures, gas, break or just looking around. Gas stations now have to be planned for in advance. 2 out of every 3 stations are closed and traffic is non-existent. I have gone for 20 and 30 minute stretches without seeing a car. My longest leg yesterday had me going 175 miles to Teslin Yukon from Watson without a station, then going the 125 miles to Whitehorse again without a station or anything else for that matter. Weather was clear and pleasant all day-never too hot and by the end of the day my window is up. Because daylight is 20 hours + I did not have to drive in the dark the last 2 evenings.
Cell phone service is now pretty much non-existent except in 1 or 2 towns. The largest city in the Yukon is Whitehorse with 25,000 of the entire territory's 27,000 residents so even the "towns" are really a gas station and restaurant, plus a few buildings. People continue to be pretty friendly other than at a lodge or two where they are rather distant. Vermont Doug- I think I stopped at your Swiss friends' place-wow are the Swiss unfriendly! Again, this is not a negative because 95% of the people are very friendly. I have met 2 very knowledgeable Superbird guys up here who went out of their way to find the car and talk. This was a pleasant surprise but the word is out that one is coming and they are waiting for me at the gas stations. I had a bison burger at Coal River Lodge-nothing to stop for and not very friendly, and a tasty cinnamon bun at the Tesla River Lodge-it was very tasty and is probably the reason you don't see any old people here-they all died of heart attacks from the cholesterol in the buns.
AT Watson Lake Yukon there is a famous "Signpost Campground" with thousands of license plates from all over the world. There is now a 2015 Indiana license plate "SBird70" mounted sideways in the front row, 2nd post on the right mounted sideways. I had heard about this place and brought the plate, and of course had the necessary tools.
Geography-I have run out of adjectives. The further north you drive in BC the more beautiful it gets with forests from horizon to horizon, mountains everywhere, road cut out of the side of the mountain with sheer cliff down the side, rivers, streams, wildlife and scenery out of a landscape painting. Several times I wished for a pullout to take even more pictures and I can only hope the GoPro got some. Most of yesterday's trip was mountainous and heavily forested, although it started out as gentle hills from Ft Nelson and ended the same way at Whitehorse. I saw 3 bears roadside, 2 moose, a porcupine and a herd of Dall sheep-none of which were dead roadkill like yesterday!. Although road signs existed warning of buffalo, wild horses and caribou I did not see any of them. I have been seeing snowcapped peaks for most of the day and near the end of the day the treeline was fairly close on the mountains across the river. The bridge collection has been amazing, and in a few cases stunning. The road follows rivers and lakes which makes the views even more stunning. Breathtaking views of azure colored lakes reach across the landscape to the foot of sheer granite-walled mountains that are frosted with snow fields and clusters of trees clinging to their sides-amazing! The views alone have made this trip worthwhile and I can't wait to drive back through on the return.
Road construction-I have had many stretches of gravel and road construction including the use of pilot cars. For the most part the road is good, but unlined and gravel shoulders. Every time a truck passes coming the other direction I get as far right as possible. 75% of the traffic is oil/gas stuff, 20% is tourists with campers and 5% is everyone else-not a lot of any one thing though. I am using the voice recorder on the phone for memos. I talked with the flagman at one stop-interesting living conditions.
Mechanical issues-the car continues to run fine-what an incredible piece of mechanical genius these Chrysler engineers put together with this drivetrain. I can live with the oil use (which is not getting worse) for the reliability. Two incidents occurred today-first I hit a piece of a semi-tire at 65 mph which has now put a 2 foot long scrape and dent down the lower passenger side (Mike from Magnum Auto Restoration if you are reading this get ready for a drop off on the return trip), the second instance was a split power steering line where it had been rubbing against the power steering cooler. I replaced the hose with some extra I had with me, new fluid from the supply box and duct taped the hose to keep it from wearing through again. In the process I sliced my thumb open and after rinsing it with bottled water and some antifreeze (alcohol in the antifreeze) I duct taped my thumb too! I would have stapled the thumb together but alas, no stapler.
Today's drive is light-only 100 miles to Haines Junction, so after breakfast and cleaning the car I think I will take a detour to Skagway Alaska-only 120 miles out of the way! More to come.
Quote from: birdsandbees on June 27, 2015, 12:15:08 PM
$1.09/litre for regular, probably $1.38 for premium (ethanol free) here in Ontario.... should be cheaper out West.
3.785 litres to a US gallon. So 1.38 x 3.785= 5.22 Cdn a gallon x .81 = $4.23 US / US gallon.
So, about $ 1.50 more per gallon. Canada screws it's own people on everything. :brickwall:
Ha! Those Swiss are up at Munch Lake - a fishing lodge - where I spent the night a year ago on my trip with my Challenger. It was my only "negative" experience of my whole trip (bascially the same route that your are on).
Skagway is quite the tourist town..... the cruise ships overwhelm the community. There's a great breakfast spot on Main street..... and the Skagway Brewery is pretty good!
As good as the scenery is so far...... you "ain't seen nothing yet" Wait until you take the Richardson Highway between Tok and Anchorage.....
I"m glad things are going well..... Enjoy your adventure!
Doug
VT Mopar
The day in Whitehorse started out clear and cool-jacket weather. I traveled 350 miles today and have now passed 4,100 for the trip. With a short drive of 100 miles scheduled for the day I elected for a 110 mile (220 RT) side trip to Skagway, Alaska down the Chilkoot pass and Klondike Gold Rush trail. I have been on this road twice in the past off of cruise ships. In all my travels around the world, without exception the most beautiful drive is the trip from Skagway to WHitehorse-glaciers, waterfalls, mountains, lakes and trees. Do it if you ever have a chance-it was worth it to me after driving in a 45 year old car for 4,000 miles if that is any indicator.
The drive down was uneventful, even through customs, other than the severe grade that concerned me and the brakes going downhill for 7 miles. Once in to Skagway I took several pictures, including one with a cruise ship and mountains in the back, 1 by the Red Onion saloon and several on the trek back up by "Emerald Lake" and at the top of the pass where it was gorgeous with the snow fields in the back. Once back to WHitehorse I again filled up and drove to Haines Junction Yukon where I now sit.
We have had a major mechanical issue come up. The oil pressure on the car dropped significantly in the last 25 miles. It could be major engine trouble, minor engine trouble or simply a bad sending unit. There is 1 mechanic in town (no stores-only 500 people) and when his shop opens I am going to see if he can put a mechanical oil pressure gauge on it to see if it is a bad sending unit. If he can't I will not feel safe driving the car any distance and will have to call a tow truck 110 miles back in Whitehorse to come and get me and the car-there are no cabs here! Once back in Whitehorse I will either get it fixed, rent a UHaul and trailer and drive it home behind the UHaul or ship it home via truck and try to get a flight out of WHitehorse to Anchorage. DO not think this event is a bother-this entire trip has been worth it even if it ends prematurely today-I made it to ALaska (maybe not as far as I wanted), saw some great sights and met some really fine people.
I will post again when I know more.
Bob
Just as you get into town on the left (coming down the hill from customs) is a concrete plant. The guy that ran it in 2003 had a Pro Street Camaro, super nice guy. If he is still there he may be able to help you as well.
He had a Rallye wheel in his junk pile that he gave me.
Thanks awaiting tow truck to Whitehorse. Will diagnose, drop oil pan and valve job if needed, then try to complete the trip. If this is the worst thing today it will still be a great day!
You have a great (and appropriate) attitude about the trials of this kind of road trip. A few years ago I had to ship my 70 Challenger home from Colorado with motor problems. Hopefully your issue is minor. Keep us posted
VT Mopar
Tons of oil pressure-sending unit is bad. Example 4 of aftermarket crap. Spending night in Whitehorse will resume trip Tuesday. On to fairbanks
Very good news! Keep the updates coming!
:2thumbs:
AWESOME !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
QuoteIn the process I sliced my thumb open and after rinsing it with bottled water and some antifreeze (alcohol in the antifreeze) I duct taped my thumb too! I would have stapled the thumb together but alas, no stapler.
Creative duct tape use. You have already become immersed in Alaskan culture!!!Thanks for documenting your trip. I'm enjoying reading this quite a bit.
:2thumbs: TERRIFIC NEWS :2thumbs: Keep on a Truckin!
VT Mopar
Haines Junction Yukon-clear and crisp morning in 40's. I stayed at the Raven Hotel. The owners Bruce & Gwen, and Gwen's Mom were some of the nicest people I have met on this trip! I HIGHLY recommend their hotel in the tiny village of Haines Junction, which is about 110 miles north of Whitehorse, with an actual chef and reservations for dinner!
No driving today! I called a wrecker service in WHitehorse (where I left yesterday) and had to wait until lunch for them to arrive with a flatbed wrecker. Al the driver is a huge guy but very friendly and we loaded up the car and rode the 2 and 1/2 hours back to Whitehorse. I was extremely lucky in this case-Capital Towing's owner Doug O'Connor told me they had a Mopar expert/nut that worked there and sure enough they did-even wearing a Mopar shirt. He quickly hooked up a manual oil sending unit and we tested pressure-40PSI at idle, even though the old crappy one from YearOne showed 5-20 PSI. We called NAPA and they even had one and 30 minutes later, voila. Gauge now reads as it should, pressure is great and on with the show. I gave him one of the precious mugs I had printed up for the trip and thanked the whole shop-another group of super folks to continue the Yukon experience.
The car is now full, I am in the hotel, and hoping for a 6:30am departure back on the road to Fairbanks after breakfast. There are rumors of very bad road conditions north of Haines junction with lots of gravel and major frost heaves so tomorrow's 500 mile trip may be lengthy but I will make Fairbanks-my original goal!!!!! Although I washed the car quickly at a spray wash yesterday, it is once again filthy because of rain and gravel going to and from Haines Junction.
There will be cell phone service for only about 10 minutes of the 11 hours so tracking will not be working except in isolated areas. After today's first use of the satellite phone I hope not to use it again because tomorrow is very isolated and I am concerned about gas. I know 100 miles out there is gas at Haines Junction where I will fill up, and supposedly again at Burwash Landing another 100 miles out but beyond that unsure-I will be checking carefully and filling up at every opportunity.
I have posted several pictures here on the website but am apparently not doing it correctly, sorry-email me and I will email you some fantastic, and I mean fantastic photos. Weather tonight is cold and rainy in WHitehorse-I wore a jacket for the first time on the trip to dinner. I hope to get to Fairbanks and send out another trip log tomorrow night. Having trouble compressing pictures in Windows 2013 sorry
Quote from: taxspeaker on June 26, 2015, 07:32:10 AM
Kelvin owns 2 Daytonas this one with a white stripe, the other with a red stripe. He also owns a Superbird. Here is the one Daytona at the meet
I would have liked to have stayed and seen the other cars and you but I was worried about making my crossing back into the US through a "minor" crossing point that closes early. as it was I spent 45min there (had too much cash with me). to summaries my trip
two cars driven
two countries
two boarder crossings
three daytona's seen
fifteen states
eight days
56mph average while driving
cost .... who cares
June 30, 2015
I was up at 5:30 to get an early start today, rolling at 6:10am. I think total travel today was around 600 miles, with a total for the trip now of 4,800 miles. The weather was in the 40's so I kept the windows up until Tok, Alaska-400 miles into the day! 15 minutes out of Whitehorse early this morning there was a wild horse herd grazing on the roadside. I did not want to spook them so I just went by slowly. I did not see a car until nearly 8:00am, and then only every 5-10 miles. I was warned about construction and bad roads north of Haines Junction, and I hit several stretches of gravel and frost heaves until Burwash Landing-about 100 miles north and about 200 miles in for the day. From Burwash Landing to Beaver Creek (another 100 miles or so) the roads were horrible-gravel, 1 lane, frost heaves, washboards, pilot cars, you name it and it took twice as long as planned for this section. The good side is the scenery was fantastic and I saw a rare pair of Trumpeter Swans in a pond next to the highway. AT one point near the top of a pass I noticed no cars in front or behind me and got a fantastic picture of the bird on the gravel road with mountains behind it and clouds forming a rim about 1/3 down the mountain. If I could consistently figure out how to post pictures I will try to get a couple up from today. They are posted on the superbirdnorth site.
Gas was not an issue-a station was open about every 100 miles as Vermont Doug told me from last summer. I met several neat couples and talked with a guy in a rest area for 20 minutes about cars and life in general, then another couple on motorcycles from Michigan doing the same as me. Road conditions in Canada were ridiculous-they mark the frost heaves with a stake and a red flag but don't fix them! As soon as I crossed the border the frost heaves were fixed (but not marked). On the other hand the US did not warn about gravel conditions like Canada did. I stopped at the Raven Hotel in Haines Junction and dropped off the last of my custom made Superbirdnorth coffee mugs as a note of appreciation to them.
I crossed into the US about 1:30 and had my first border "incident". The guard said they see these cars a couple of times a year and stupid me corrected him that these were Superbirds and not RoadRunners. Maybe the 4 hours of washboard driving made my response a little short about morons that don't know the difference and the next thing I knew there were a million questions (not about cars!) and pulled to the side. At least I did not have to get all the crap out of the car. I guess even at 62 years old I can still be an aggressive idiot with no patience for certain things-next time yes sir, no sir!
Food was an issue today and I subsisted on crackers and fruit until Fairbanks-just nothing that looked good. Tomorrow will be Halibut!
Once past Beaver Creek Yukon the drive eased up and the road improved tremendously-I was hitting 75-80 once in the US. The town of Tok was the first place with anything open in Alaska-not much of a town frankly. Then on to Delta Junction- it was nicer than Tok a little, then past the Air Force base and old US Army Fort Wainright (I think it is closed now). The marines were smart enough not to put a base up here in the winter and only do summer maneuvers (just a little joke). I got into the Fairbanks Hampton Inn about 6:45 Alaska time.
Mechanical issues: water temperature is still not a problem. OIl pressure-I think I blew this new sending unit on one stretch in the US when I opened her up, but no real issues there either just another blown O-ring inside the new sending unit and it is reading funny too now. I smelled it when it blew I think. The other issue-about 30 miles outside of Whitehorse I got a horrible squeaking noise from the right front wheel and pulled over as soon as possible. A visual inspection showed nothing, so out came the special aluminum jack I bought and hoped not to use, and up she goes to take the tire off. Once I got the tire off I popped the wheel bearing dust cap and the rotor to look at the bearings-they were all fine. I then looked at the caliper and when I hit one of those darn frost heaves it had actually knocked the inner disc brake pad off-center. That was actually good news because I was able to fix it in about 30 minutes with the tools in the car and some ingenuity, bled the brakes and refilled the master cylinder, then rolling again. Not one car came by the whole time-I would estimate 45-50 minutes and I looked over my shoulder often-a fat guy would taste real good to a bear for breakfast. No other issues today, but a radio would have been nice-if I ever do this again (unlikely) I would recommend Sirius satellite radio since there are no stations out here. I continue to marvel at the drivetrain of this old car-it just keeps going and going and going. I am also glad that I redid the suspension, brakes and wheel bearings before the trip because they were all tested today. For the 1st time my back is bothering me a bit too-thank you Canada road crews!
Let's see on mechanical issues occurring in this trip: engine/transmission/differential/suspension/brakes manufactured in 1969 by Chrysler-no problems. Parts bought from aftermarket in last 3 years: (2) bad electronic ignition control modules; 1 bad gas tank; 1 bad radio; (2) bad oil pressure sending units. The lesson is-fix the old stuff don't replace since new is not better in this case.
Tomorrow I have 400 miles scheduled. I hope for a 8:30 or so start and then on to Denali National Park for sightseeing. From there I plan on stopping at a field on the east side of the Parks Highway where my wife picked blueberries a few years ago and we got a picture of the Alaska railroad train going by. I am going to wait until that train comes by this trip and get it, the valley, the mountains and the Superbird in the picture. From there on to the Talkeetna Lodge for late lunch, then on to Wasilla where I will meet up with Mark from the AeroWarriors group. I am splurging tomorrow and going to go on to Girdwood and stay at the Alyeska resort. Then Thursday morning, the bird is going to go through the long tunnel to Whittier for special pictures, fishing and a final stop at Portage Glacier for pictures on the way out. Tomorrow's update will probably be the last one because Thursday after the Whittier photo event I am heading home and sleeping in a sleeping bag to get home as quickly as possible.
I don't know how to Instagram but I understand the bird is all over it right now. Look for an absolutely filthy Alpine White Superbird and you will know that's the one. I may wash it in Anchorage after I get past Denali, even though the return trip will filthy it up again.
Hey, I'm not from Aero group just an average mopar guy from here. Looking forward to meeting up with you tomorrow though. Safe trip my friend.
Mark
Quote from: taxspeaker on June 30, 2015, 11:54:12 PM
June 30, 2015
I was up at 5:30 to get an early start today, rolling at 6:10am. I think total travel today was around 600 miles, with a total for the trip now of 4,800 miles. The weather was in the 40's so I kept the windows up until Tok, Alaska-400 miles into the day! 15 minutes out of Whitehorse early this morning there was a wild horse herd grazing on the roadside. I did not want to spook them so I just went by slowly. I did not see a car until nearly 8:00am, and then only every 5-10 miles. I was warned about construction and bad roads north of Haines Junction, and I hit several stretches of gravel and frost heaves until Burwash Landing-about 100 miles north and about 200 miles in for the day. From Burwash Landing to Beaver Creek (another 100 miles or so) the roads were horrible-gravel, 1 lane, frost heaves, washboards, pilot cars, you name it and it took twice as long as planned for this section. The good side is the scenery was fantastic and I saw a rare pair of Trumpeter Swans in a pond next to the highway. AT one point near the top of a pass I noticed no cars in front or behind me and got a fantastic picture of the bird on the gravel road with mountains behind it and clouds forming a rim about 1/3 down the mountain. If I could consistently figure out how to post pictures I will try to get a couple up from today. They are posted on the superbirdnorth site.
Gas was not an issue-a station was open about every 100 miles as Vermont Doug told me from last summer. I met several neat couples and talked with a guy in a rest area for 20 minutes about cars and life in general, then another couple on motorcycles from Michigan doing the same as me. Road conditions in Canada were ridiculous-they mark the frost heaves with a stake and a red flag but don't fix them! As soon as I crossed the border the frost heaves were fixed (but not marked). On the other hand the US did not warn about gravel conditions like Canada did. I stopped at the Raven Hotel in Haines Junction and dropped off the last of my custom made Superbirdnorth coffee mugs as a note of appreciation to them.
I crossed into the US about 1:30 and had my first border "incident". The guard said they see these cars a couple of times a year and stupid me corrected him that these were Superbirds and not RoadRunners. Maybe the 4 hours of washboard driving made my response a little short about morons that don't know the difference and the next thing I knew there were a million questions (not about cars!) and pulled to the side. At least I did not have to get all the crap out of the car. I guess even at 62 years old I can still be an aggressive idiot with no patience for certain things-next time yes sir, no sir!
Food was an issue today and I subsisted on crackers and fruit until Fairbanks-just nothing that looked good. Tomorrow will be Halibut!
Once past Beaver Creek Yukon the drive eased up and the road improved tremendously-I was hitting 75-80 once in the US. The town of Tok was the first place with anything open in Alaska-not much of a town frankly. Then on to Delta Junction- it was nicer than Tok a little, then past the Air Force base and old US Army Fort Wainright (I think it is closed now). The marines were smart enough not to put a base up here in the winter and only do summer maneuvers (just a little joke). I got into the Fairbanks Hampton Inn about 6:45 Alaska time.
Mechanical issues: water temperature is still not a problem. OIl pressure-I think I blew this new sending unit on one stretch in the US when I opened her up, but no real issues there either just another blown O-ring inside the new sending unit and it is reading funny too now. I smelled it when it blew I think. The other issue-about 30 miles outside of Whitehorse I got a horrible squeaking noise from the right front wheel and pulled over as soon as possible. A visual inspection showed nothing, so out came the special aluminum jack I bought and hoped not to use, and up she goes to take the tire off. Once I got the tire off I popped the wheel bearing dust cap and the rotor to look at the bearings-they were all fine. I then looked at the caliper and when I hit one of those darn frost heaves it had actually knocked the inner disc brake pad off-center. That was actually good news because I was able to fix it in about 30 minutes with the tools in the car and some ingenuity, bled the brakes and refilled the master cylinder, then rolling again. Not one car came by the whole time-I would estimate 45-50 minutes and I looked over my shoulder often-a fat guy would taste real good to a bear for breakfast. No other issues today, but a radio would have been nice-if I ever do this again (unlikely) I would recommend Sirius satellite radio since there are no stations out here. I continue to marvel at the drivetrain of this old car-it just keeps going and going and going. I am also glad that I redid the suspension, brakes and wheel bearings before the trip because they were all tested today. For the 1st time my back is bothering me a bit too-thank you Canada road crews!
Let's see on mechanical issues occurring in this trip: engine/transmission/differential/suspension/brakes manufactured in 1969 by Chrysler-no problems. Parts bought from aftermarket in last 3 years: (2) bad electronic ignition control modules; 1 bad gas tank; 1 bad radio; (2) bad oil pressure sending units. The lesson is-fix the old stuff don't replace since new is not better in this case.
Tomorrow I have 400 miles scheduled. I hope for a 8:30 or so start and then on to Denali National Park for sightseeing. From there I plan on stopping at a field on the east side of the Parks Highway where my wife picked blueberries a few years ago and we got a picture of the Alaska railroad train going by. I am going to wait until that train comes by this trip and get it, the valley, the mountains and the Superbird in the picture. From there on to the Talkeetna Lodge for late lunch, then on to Wasilla where I will meet up with Mark from the AeroWarriors group. I am splurging tomorrow and going to go on to Girdwood and stay at the Alyeska resort. Then Thursday morning, the bird is going to go through the long tunnel to Whittier for special pictures, fishing and a final stop at Portage Glacier for pictures on the way out. Tomorrow's update will probably be the last one because Thursday after the Whittier photo event I am heading home and sleeping in a sleeping bag to get home as quickly as possible.
I don't know how to Instagram but I understand the bird is all over it right now. Look for an absolutely filthy Alpine White Superbird and you will know that's the one. I may wash it in Anchorage after I get past Denali, even though the return trip will filthy it up again.
when your headed back home and you come through Kansas City , let me know would love to meet up if time allows :2thumbs:
Quote from: taxspeaker on June 29, 2015, 10:05:34 PM
... We called NAPA and they even had one and 30 minutes later, voila. Gauge now reads as it should, pressure is great and on with the show...
Great to hear all's well.............. :2thumbs:
You're going to love spending a night at the Aleska..... well worth a few extra $$ Enjoy!
On your return,are you taking the Richardson Highway (from Anchorage to Tok? That stretch of road is spectacular!
Glad all is going well.....
VT Mopar
:2thumbs: :popcrn:
July 1, 2015
AT 4:30 PM Alaska time, we reached our goal of Anchorage Alaska Chrysler Plymouth and the goal is met with the journey ending. We then gave the car a much needed detailed hand wash and drove on to Girdwood AK, the furthest point of the trip. The odometer reads 46582 for a total one-way mileage of 5,209 miles. A few pictures will be taken tomorrow depending on weather, and then head back to my understanding wife and job.
The day in Fairbanks began cold and rainy and after an early rising at 5:30, workout, breakfast, vehicle & fluid check and fill up we were on the road by 7:45am. It was so cold that I had the defroster on for over 250 miles of the 400 mile day travel goal, and it even kind of worked-much like 45 years ago. The Parks Highway from Fairbanks to ANchorage goes through Denali National Park and some of the most scenic areas of the United States. Unfortunately I saw none of them because of heavy rain for the first 350 miles, accompanied by forest fire smoke. This meant no pictures for most of the trip today. Today's drive was by far the worst of the entire 5,200 mile trek. The Parks Highway frankly is a disaster. There were 4 separate major road construction areas with 20-30 minute waits, potholed roads for 10 miles, rain, 1 lane-not the way I have seen it in the past. On the other hand at Wasilla, it cleared up, I met with Mark from the DOdge Charger forum and drove into Anchorage under beautiful sunny skies. The guys at the Chrysler dealership loved the car, took dozens of pictures and got my permission to use the pictures with their ads. They even brought a Scat Pack car to put beside it for pictures. These 2 groups continued the trip's legacy of super people!
At Anchorage I drove along Turnagin Arm, the sun was shining and the snowcapped mountain peaks surrounding the Bay glistened in the sky like an early morning sunrise touching the tops of pine trees. Fantastic views to finish up-I took several pictures of the Bird with the mountainous background. What an excellent way to conclude the trip!
Mechanically not as good as prior days. The engine is still doing great on oil and water but clearly now has some carburetor issues beyond my ability-probably from the low quality fuel, dirt and age. Throughout much of Canada and Alaska I could only get the lowest octane fuel and the monster engine doesn't like it. The front end took obvious abuse from today's road, but held up. The brakes are now squeaking like mice in a Cheshire cat grin and the wiper motor gave out in Willow, AK after 7 solid hours of "on". I will decide tomorrow after my drive through the railroad tunnel to WHittier and Portage Glacier what to do about the wiper motor-the dealership does not have one. I think the 350 miles of driving rain and potholed roads may have taken a toll on the electrical system and now I wish I had rewired it like I did the AAR Cuda and the old Hemi R/T Charger. I can handle electrical issues as long as the firewall plug doesn't melt and I brought a new fusible link.
I have had many people ask me about the problems with the car and was the trip worth it? My response is simple-what problems? This is a 45 year old car that you had better expect to fix some things, so yes it has been worth it particularly since I have waited 50 years for this drive and the low fuel light is on in my gas tank of ability. It has been a particularly satisfying accomplishment that I met so many great people, saw so many beautiful sights, and awakened the youthful memories and dreams of so many people with this car. As I said at the beginning of this trip the car is the star, I have just been the lucky delivery man of re-awakened dreams in the car's sighting. The best part of this trip has been the grins, honks, smiles, thumbs up, children's beaming faces, pictures, u-turns, videos and requests of people of all ages, sexes, races and religions to see the car, honk the beep-beep horn or even sit in the driver seat.
Finally thanks for those of you that called and texted to help keep me awake, but particularly to my lovely wife of 40+ years for understanding this trip. I do not know if I will have time to post a log tomorrow, so this is a fitting conclusion to the dream. Just like the movie Vanishing Point's uncertain ending, this car may just keep on driving tomorrow or not.
Bob Jennings
Way to go! :2thumbs:
I'll bet that Kim at Passion4Mopars could overnight you a wiper motor...... or I've got one off my '68 Charger that works that I could ship (assuming it fits in your Bird).
VT Mopar
Great trip!
Awesome trip & beautiful pics you have there Bob!
Think I read on your site logs where you had a clear "Bra" installed. If so, how well has it performed for ya, ...disregarding the chunk of truck tire? :eek2:
Did you apply it to the wheel well lips too?
Stick-on, static, or what?
So, who had fuel additive on their list of thing to pack?
I've much enjoyed your dispatches.
I have the upmost respect for your ability to stay in the seat each day.
That clear stuff did the trick. It was a stick on wrap that will peel off when I get home. It is on the entire nose cone and 1foot of hood and fenders, and behind both wheel wells from the bottom crease down-you can't even see it's there. Sadly it was not where the tire hit.
I was scared to carry much fuel additive and incorrectly assumed I could buy it at most places. They have lots of diesel additive but no one had gas additive.
Bob,
Amazing trip!
Thanks for taking us along!
MJ
Great trip and travel blog Bob, thanks so much for keeping it going and up to date after the long days at the wheel.
Sounds like a fantastic trip
:cheers:
The furthest point of the trip was to Whittier Alaska after driving through the 2.5 mile combination car/train tunnel through the Portage Glacier tunnel. This final picture may be one of the most picturesque taken in front of the Portage Glacier outside of the tunnel. No, not home yet but taking a short break for 5 minutes with internet access!
Bob
That is pure awesome-ness right there.
Well I am back from Alaska. Many folks have commented on the trip-thanks for the cards, calls, texts and emails! The most common question is "How was it"
It was an incredible experience of which dreams are made that I will remember until my last days. The people, the scenery, the experiences, the road, the long days driving, blessed with occasional bright lights of children's smiles and car-lovers grins and comments all served to make this trip actually better than I had dreamed about my whole life. The bucket list however is not complete! I found Mopar lovers everywhere particularly in Saskatoon, Dawson Creek, Whitehorse and Wasilla. When the car went through the railroad tunnel to Whittier the entire tunnel staff took pictures and in Whittier the excitement of people seeing the car in that tiny fishing village was wilder than a return from overseas. Man do people love this car! Superbird owners-you've got to drive these things!!
Mechanically the Superbird held up amazingly well. I have a new wiper motor waiting to replace in a few days once I catch my breath and the cleaning needs are worse than expected. The thousands of miles of travel on poor gas and more importantly on unleaded gas has burned several valves so over the next month or two I am going to do a valve job and put in hardened valve seats for the future. This is not a design flaw of Chrysler, this is as a result of changing EPA regulations so I do not fault the car. In fact the car held up for the entire trip. Other than those two things no new leaks have been sprung or parts broken that I have found yet. I do plan on doing another brake job on the front disks after the problems outside of Whitehorse and Dave (Dawson Creek Inland Chrysler) the gas tank is still holding! Other minor mechanical needs-another oil pressure sending unit and a new radio speaker! Chrysler built an amazing vehicle 45 years ago that withstood the rigors of the entire Alaska Highway basically without any failure or hiccup!
Over the next few weeks here is what I am planning. First we will have Ryan prepare a couple of time lapse videos of portions of the trip, particularly the scenic portions in British Columbia, the Yukon and south of Anchorage where we had good weather and camera shots. We have already printed about 1 dozen large prints of the best pictures of the trip and have framed them for hanging in my office at home and in the new garage once we get it. I hope to go through all of the trip receipts and organize them into a chronological manner to coincide with pictures and also print out the daily trip log, and tie them into my daily audio notes while driving. Then I want to put it all on 1 large DVD with high quality pictures, time lapse video, audio commentary from the trip and still shots supplementing the commentary and make it available to anyone who wants it. I have now received an email inquiry from Fiat Chrysler's publicity department about the trip so there may be something coming on that as well. Finally as soon as I get time I want to post some final pictures of the car at home to show how it held up. Assuming I have time I hope to drive it up to Columbus on Saturday in August to the Mopar Nationals.
The new bucket list item? Well since in 2015 we took the car as far north as possible in North America, what about the other direction? Planning now begins to drive it to the tip of South America in January 2017! Crazy-maybe-but no one thought it would make the Alcan trip either! Step one will be to start working on Spanish.
Once again, thanks everyone for your interest and support. We will be posting some video clips in the next few weeks once we get them converted.
Bob Jennings
That must have been an amazing trip that will give you great memories until memories no longer count. I am envious of your bravado and determination to make this trip and will certainly go on the waiting list for a CD compilation. The number of miles you travelled each day is stunning and amazing to me as I would be hard-pressed to do that in the comfort of my Lexus, much less, my Charger or your Superbird!
The trip to the southernmost tip of South America would be an amazing journey and the experience of a lifetime. My medical issues now and age (almost 69) make either trip a virtual impossibility for me so I will just have to travel vicariously thru your expeditions. Really a great report of an awesome trip!
Carl
What an experience. Can't wait to see some videos! :2thumbs:
What was the ending total mileage?
Awesome journey. Looking forward to more pics. Thanks for all the details of your travels. I guess the aftermarket parts are meant to look good and not stand up like original.
Rob
https://youtu.be/21drxu4v3XU
Here is a time lapse video for the very short section from girdwood to Whittier Alaska through the Whittier tunnel
Beautiful country up there. :cheers:
what a awesome road trip , thanks for sharing the your day to day adventures & pictures & stuff , made for good reading :cheers: :cheers: :2thumbs: :coolgleamA:
Last summer VTDoug made this trip in his 2013 Challenger. He also owns a 70 Challenger and a 68 Charger R/T. He was at Carlisle over the weekend (I have never had the pleasure myself) and is slowly driving to ST Louis to visit family before heading up to Minnesota for fishing. He is driving his triple black restored 68 R/T with aftermarket air and we met up for lunch outside of Louisville in Corydon Indiana. What a great guy, with great stories and a beautiful car. I have attached a picture.
My son is working on another time lapse to post maybe by the weekend, and Matt Johnson who is our company's other IT guy has taken on the job of converting all my videos, pictures, audio recordings and receipts into a DVD to give away. I think I will also ask him to develop a set of storyboards and scrapbook for car shows.
Once again thanks for the kind comments.
Bob
This trip is now on the fiat-chrysler blog
http://blog.fcanorthamerica.com/
I probably incorrectly stated the first time it was ever done as I am sure someone else could have done it 45 years ago, but I don't know if they did it alone.
Started cleanup today and found several things:
1. Wiper motor had not burned up-it had vibrated the nut loose from the back of the motor to the arms. So I have a new motor I put in anyway and marked the old one "still works-70 Superbird"
2. Vibration had also loosened one of the hood lanyard tie-down bolts and a couple of other bolts and nuts
3. Rear window or trunk leak was still wet, so I have the trunk open drying it out with the mat out in the sun-after 2 weeks!
4. There are dead bugs and dirt from crevices I didn't even know existed
5. The only casualty of the trip seems to be my back which is still bothering me.
Dead bugs are a badge of honor! Photo from my trip to Anchorage & back in 2003;
Right on. Good meeting you Bob. I'm now building a Daytona clone since you've left 3 weeks ago.
Mark
Quote from: Alaskan_TA on July 21, 2015, 08:09:36 PM
Dead bugs are a badge of honor! Photo from my trip to Anchorage & back in 2003;
Beautiful! The mark of an appreciated car.
More good press for Bob and the indomitable Superbird!
http://blog.hemmings.com/index.php/2015/07/25/four-links-superbird-in-alaska-literary-road-trips-pulled-pontiac-johan/?refer=news
For those of us that did not follow the day to day progress of your trip, thank you for the nice writing in the DSAC newsletter. It sounds like a wonderful trip!
Thanks for the update! I really enjoyed your posts along the way. Please think long and hard about your proposed trip south. Although there are many beautiful places and great people, there is also some areas and elements that you would not want to be faced with. Taking the superbird down there will certainly bring attention your way, but it may not be all positive.....
Quote from: RECHRGD on August 06, 2015, 03:28:50 PM
Thanks for the update! I really enjoyed your posts along the way. Please think long and hard about your proposed trip south. Although there are many beautiful places and great people, there is also some areas and elements that you would not want to be faced with. Taking the superbird down there will certainly bring attention your way, but it may not be all positive.....
A friend has run the Carrera Panamericana race in Mexico in a vintage Corvette. When his car became disabled and had to be towed, it was an interesting experience with much uncertainly as to how he was going to get his car back. It eventually involved cash donations with a number of twists and turns. There is no way I would take a valuable car south of the border. It is like the wild west.
Quote from: Redbird on August 04, 2015, 07:05:19 PM
For those of us that did not follow the day to day progress of your trip, thank you for the nice writing in the DSAC newsletter. It sounds like a wonderful trip!
Here is the link to the trip compilation in the DSAC newsletter. Click on the link to view or download the newsletter.
http://www.superbirdclub.com/May-July_2015.pdf (http://www.superbirdclub.com/May-July_2015.pdf)
Last night I decided to take the Bird up to Sellersburg Indiana where they always have a car show at McDonalds the first Friday of the month-I have never been but it is only 10 miles. This would be the first time out of the garage since returning from Alaska. About 2 miles after leaving my house I tapped the brakes and they locked up. After the issue with the right front pad in Alaska I assumed I had a frozen caliper piston, but when I put it in reverse it freed up, forward it locked up if braking. This made no sense, but somehow I got turned around and nursed it home using the emergency brake only since it was the front brakes locking up.
I decided (incorrectly) that the calipers were bad-maybe water had gotten in them or something in Alaska? so today I put it up on jack stands to rebuild them. I pulled the driver side and it appeared ok, pads were good (only 10,000 miles!) but the rubber pin grommets were pretty worn, so I was feeling pretty good about my choice to rebuild.
When I went to the passenger side the entire caliper was off-center-curious. After removing the caliper I looked at the caliper's mounting bracket and it was way off kilter. I then looked to where it bolts to the steering knuckle and 1 of the 2 bolts was completely gone, causing the caliper to be way off center. This must have happened in Whitehorse when the disc brake pad went crooked-somehow it made it the rest of the entire trip screwed up like that, but 2 miles after returning home it slides the rest of the way up! Talk about someone up above keeping an eye out! Anyway does anyone have an extra caliper to steering knuckle 3/4" bolt they can sell me? Seriously-PM me please.
Meanwhile I am going to go ahead and call the Ram Man and get a set of his calipers since these are pretty beat up, and put some of those emc pads on too. May as well replace the original master cylinder I guess since the brake fluid looks like coffee.
While it was up on the jack stands I noticed that all of the rubber bushings in the sway bar look beat to heck too, so once I get a lift again I guess the Alaska highway beat them up and they will be replaced.
As far as the trip South in January of 2017 I am getting a lot of bad vibes about personal safety, so that will probably not occur now. The car will go up to Dave at Magnum Restoration soon (I hope) for an exterior restoration and whatever else is needed.
Bob
if you have the original master cyl I recommend having it rebuilt sleeved back to stock not just from a correct appearance but also performance I have been through SIX masters in my charger trying to find a current replacement that has the correct performance (bore / stroke ratio)
The Superbird is still running after the Alaska trip but is scheduled for some engine rebuilding work over the winter since it leaks everything, everywhere now and the rattles tell me I have not found all of the things jarred lose from the trip. I was able to find a brake caliper to steering knuckle bolt and the Bird is drivable and still looks great-that clear bra we put on saved everything except for the gash from the tire I hit in the Yukon. It got driven yesterday for the first time in several months from home to its new home.
Living in a northern state we are often unable to drive our cars for several months at a time. Even though I believe in driving them, like most of us snow, ice and rain is to be avoided. Unfortunately bad weather combined with vehicle maintenance issues has combined over the years to keep me from having all 3 of our old Plymouths running at the same time. We moved to our new 8 bay shop this weekend and it forced me to finish up a 2 month interior restoration on the 65 red one below and get it and the Superbird out of our home garage. My son snapped these 2 pictures while the sun was shining.
We are still working on a DVD time laps of the trip, but as soon as they get it done I will post up and send a free one to anyone that wants it. I have no idea of the time frame on that however, sorry.
Bob,
If I remember correctly you went through a couple of rally dash oil sending units on the trip?
Were any of them originals? If so have you done any research on getting them working again?
If you or anyone reading this has any tips I'd be interested as I have one working part time!@#$%^&*(!!
MJ
I have blown 2 of them out, also same problem you are having-intermittent and inconsistent readings followed by slow failure. I have on my list an attempt to get NOS ones rather than the YearOne/NAPA ones. If you find a source let me know please!
The Alaska Highway Bird's unrestored situation is now changed. We showed it at the Carl Casper show in Louisville over the weekend-unbelievable interest and local TV coverage. Funny how a Superbird draws the fans. Anyway, I knew this day was coming and today I took the car to Mark at Magnum restorations for a full resto job. 2nd mortgage time but before the car starts having rust issues and while the suspension is beaten up and the rear main leaking it is time to do the whole thing. Here is a last picture from the show before going to Magnum. I know it's in good hands and that this must be done, but it sure hurts to turn loose an unrestored one.
Well good news-the entire trip is close to being converted to video clips now and we hope to start posting to You Tube tomorrow. The video guys are debating posting both many clips as well as the entire trip. Part of the trip has sound and that is interesting. I have watched many pieces with them to identify locations, dates, etc and it is surprising what we see in the video that I didn't notice or forgot while driving.
Some interesting comments-
The road conditions were even worse than I remembered
The scenery is incredible and makes me want to do it again
The reactions of people was extremely funny and several picture takers I did not see while I was inside
No comments are needed on the speedo reading in Alaska over 110-clearly a malfunction
Also no comments needed on the RCMP officer's discussion or paper transfer!
We have seen a number of animals I didn't catch immediately
The clouds, the clouds, the clouds
The meeting with Kelvin's Daytona in Sasketchewan now listed on EBay
The nuts at Anchorage Chrysler Plymouth
Anyway look for the 1st upload tomorrow-I will put a quick link on here then
:2thumbs:
Popcorn will be ready tomorrow. :popcrn: :popcrn: Maybe a few beers also. :cheers:
On with the show this is it... :popcrn:
This clip is a 4-5 hour driving stretch compressed to 2 and 1/2 minutes from southern Saskatchewan to a meeting with an even rarer 1969 Dodge Daytona in Saskatoon, before driving on.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XefZDkRII-g&feature=youtu.be
Working on shots for thew first time in a year and particularly like this one. Publisher has contacted me about a book with pictures so doing a lot of searching. One of the neat shots is the RCMP officer from the tail camera writing a ticket with has hand on the gun. Publisher says we need permission from the guy-can't read the scribbled officer name so I guess we can't use that one. Nice guy-ticket was for 125k in a 100k zone-sounds fast but only about 75!
Great photo! :2thumbs:
So the Bird is in a complete rebuilding stage getting ready for South America (?) at Magnum Performance. A few surprises including just a little touch of bondo in the nose!
Sorry I always forget the picture
After 4 years and tons of editing, our own Cody Cole finished and has published the coffee table book:
Well that didn't work! Try this
https://www.blurb.com/b/9796125-superbird-north-the-road-to-alaska
Quote from: taxspeaker on February 24, 2020, 09:13:27 PM
Well that didn't work! Try this
https://www.blurb.com/b/9796125-superbird-north-the-road-to-alaska
Bob, that is SUPER COOL !!!! man, that must have been scary with those horses.........
Bob is a Brave Brave soul :icon_smile_big: :drool5: