My Panoz & Delorean Blog

It's been a while...

2012-01-15T14:22:00.000-07:00

Well, I just thoroughly washed my Panoz and cleaned the interior. When I clean the interior, I take toothpicks and Q-tips to the dash and make sure every nook and cranny is clean. The exterior really needed a cleaning and I did all that I usually do except wax it. I'll wait until car show season to do the first wax of the year.

I added a new Kenwood radio to my RAV4 with in-dash navigation and iPod support. It also plays DVD movies if the car is in park, but I can't see what use that is. I opted to forego the backup camera, Car Toys wanted $400 for the camera + installation. I can add that later if I want.

Made it to the British Conclave in Sept. 2011

2011-10-13T16:41:00.000-06:00

I was so interested in the cars at the show that I forgot to take photos of my own car! Some great examples of British motoring...

Ribbons for Rachael Car Show

2011-09-07T16:06:00.000-06:00

Last Saturday there was a new, small car show at the University Village Colorado mall on N. Nevada Blvd.

Trailer Delorean...again

2011-07-27T21:58:00.000-06:00

So some very good friends drove all the way from Denver to Colorado Springs to help me get my Delorean on the club's trailer, in the pouring rain no less. They then drove the car back up to Denver and, in the dark, got the car in my friend's garage. Another friend was waiting for the delivery and did some amazing diagnostics on my car's fuel pump problem. The cause goes backs years, most likely. The engine and pump grounds have not been good for quite some time, forcing the fuel pump to function on less-than-ideal current. Yet another friend took his day off and worked on the two main grounds on my car and got the electrics within specs. With friends like this, who needs relatives?

I made a composite photo of Panoz's recent efforts

2011-07-22T11:27:00.002-06:00

When people at car shows ask what Panoz is doing now, I show this composite.

Thin Air Nats Car Show 2011

2011-07-17T08:16:00.000-06:00

I attended the Thin Air Nats Car Show in Green Mountain Falls, CO yesterday. It was a nice show, a little hot, but shade was easy to find which is why I like the show. I left early because they were taking WAAAY too long to give out prizes and it looked like rain. I took my Panoz as my Delorean is waiting on a new fuel pump.

Repair trip complete

2011-07-13T20:38:00.001-06:00

So I've returned from my repair trip (i.e., picking up my Delorean from DPI in Tallmadge, OH). The final product of the car fix/modifications was outstanding. I got 25+ mpg at least half the trip, and very close to that the other half. There are minor adjustments that need doing (accelerator pedal is too tight, engine louvers need adjustment) but otherwise my car's the best it's ever been.

Third shock pair replaced in the front end

2011-06-28T16:24:00.000-06:00

DPI keeps finding things wrong with my car, and my second pair of front shocks are cracked at the base. They haven't been in the car 6 months, probably no more than 4.

Clean new engine bay!

2011-06-28T16:17:00.001-06:00

Here's a photo of my recently repaired engine back in the rear of the car. The airbox is not installed, so you can see how clean the engine is. This is the appearance package from DPI (Delorean Performance Industries) in Tallmadge, OH. One of the nice things you don't really notice is how clean the wiring is now - DPI re-installed the wiring to match the '83 standard. This means that unused wires were removed and the remaining bundle was re-routed for a cleaner appearance.

Hey! My Panoz is in a video!

2011-06-13T17:17:00.000-06:00

http://youtu.be/fe3s81T2xdI

A videographer at the 28th Cerebral Palsy Exotic Car Show shot some footage of the two Panoz's at the show (9:28), as well as my friend Dan Haney's Delorean at 14:30.

Delorean restoration/repair coming along at DPI in Tallmadge, OH

2011-06-13T16:08:00.000-06:00

Delorean Performance Industries in Tallmadge, OH is doing the repair work on my Delorean. I hit a landscaping rock about a month or so ago, and DPI is fixing the frame as well as some much needed maintenance work. I doubt the cylinder heads and Valley of Death (VOD) looked this good when I took delivery of my Delorean in May, 2008.

Cerebral Palsy Exotic Car Show in Littleton, CO

2011-06-13T16:04:00.000-06:00

I had a great day at the CP Exotic Car Show on Sunday, June 12, 2011. I met another Panoz owner! I thought I had the only one in Colorado, and so did he! The Panoz Club of Colorado is now represented by two cars I suppose. My high school friend Brenda Wise now lives in Littleton and stopped by to see me at the show. There were Lambos, Maseratis, Porsches, Bitters, Singers, Morgans, Austin-Healeys, Ferraris, etc. Great day for a show (if a little warm) and great food!

Delorean sucessfully trailered to repair shop

2011-05-27T14:31:00.000-06:00

It took 6 days (there and back) but I was able to get my Delorean to DPI in Tallmadge, OH for repair. They're not only fixing the rock damage but will be doing some other maintenance and repairs for me. I had perfect weather going out there, and missed a downpour by 3 hours after delivering my car to covered storage.

Darn it...more damage

2011-04-26T07:01:00.000-06:00

So I moved my Delorean for the first time since my "rock" incident and found a puddle of transmission fluid under the car. The floor was bone dry prior to my accident, so i suspect that the rock skipped under the frame after being hit and damaged an A/T cooler line or something.

The insurance adjuster visited today...

2011-04-19T16:31:00.000-06:00

...and took photos of my damage. He didn't see it at first, I had to put my hand on the frame deformation for him to know where it was. I'm not sure if he thinks the damage he sees is as extensive as I say it is, but we'll know for sure after I get my car to Delorean Performance Industries.

Here's the rock of my discontent...

2011-04-19T16:29:00.001-06:00

The Delorean is down for most of the summer

2011-04-12T16:17:00.000-06:00

I was driving home from a movie this past Friday and I hit a rock that was in the street, causing tremendous damage to my Delorean. I'll be trailering the car to Ohio for Delorean Performance Industries to repair. This means I have to cancel my Woodward Dream Cruise plans for 2011.

Hot Dog! The Grocery Warehouse shows have started...

2011-04-08T14:15:00.000-06:00

An informal car show occurs every Saturday at the Old Grocery Warehouse parking lot (Austin Bluffs & N. Academy, Colorado Springs, CO) about 3:00pm. These have apparently started up again, and I'm hoping to meet Dave from the Bijou School Show. He was there last week and will be bringing me a registration form for his show on April 30. He'll be looking for my Delorean, let's hope it gets repaired today.

Rotors received!

2011-04-07T14:58:00.002-06:00

The new rear discs were received at my repair shop today at noon. Hopefully I'll get my Delorean back on Friday.

More parts, more parts...

2011-04-06T16:51:00.000-06:00

I had to return the Delorean to the repair shop to correct the pedal pulse. It turns out that new rear brake discs are required and are on order from Delorean Houston. They're more reasonable that I had figured, about $75 each. If I had any other orphaned car, getting parts like that would be impossible. The new discs should arrive at the mechanic's by Thursday or Friday and I should get my car back by the weekend.

Brake job needs some work...

2011-04-04T09:05:00.000-06:00

The steering wheel shake is gone but the new brake job (rotor polish and shoe refit only) has some issues. In town, braking is smooth as glass. At highway speed, however, I get pedal pulsation and slight chassis shake. So I took it back to the shop and asked them to test the car on the highway. They've always done a good job so I'm sure they'll figure it out.

Getting the rotors done today...

2011-04-01T10:28:00.000-06:00

I'm lucky enough to have my mechanic across the street have a slot open today, I'm having my Delorean brake rotors turned today. The steering wheel shakes when braking so I know the rotors need a polish. My mech will also check the pads and make sure they sit where they're supposed to. I'm working from home today so it's very convenient to have this done...

Denver St. Patrick's Day Parade 2011

2011-03-13T16:22:00.000-06:00

The RMDG (Rocky Mountain Delorean Group) participated in the 2011 Denver St. Patrick's Parade.

Changing the oil...

2011-03-10T19:48:00.000-07:00

I wasn't feeling good enough to go to work today, but with taking the day off I decided to see if I could get the oil changed. My Delorean will be in the Denver 2011 St. Patrick's Day Parade, so I thohught it was a good time to do some maintenance.

Mr. Drippy is no more

2011-02-20T10:55:00.000-07:00

It looks like Josh Bengston of DPI has fixed my pesky transmission leaks. The tranny pan was removed and re-sealed, coolant pipes were replaced and new axles were installed.

World's most gifted Delorean mechanic coming to Colorado!

2011-01-22T16:52:00.000-07:00

Josh Bengstrom of Delorean Performance Industries, Inc., will be visiting Colorado. He does these goodwill tours and fixes Deloreans. I have several things that need repair (a window needs gluing in, shocks need replacing) and so do many other owners. I'm looking forward to his visit!

Motor Trend Article on the 2004 GTLM

2010-12-31T08:19:00.002-07:00

Neato! http://www.motortrend.com/roadtests/01/panoz/index.html

Front shocks are totally gone

2010-12-29T16:39:00.000-07:00

The Delorean's front shocks are totally gone...it sounds like soup cans rattling around in the bonnet. I'll be replacing them in the Spring. DMC Europe has some good ones (better than the originals) and Delorean Performance Industries has them here in the States.

Comments all setup!

2010-12-24T09:18:00.000-07:00

OK I've setup automatic notification for comments on my blog...I won't miss anymore in the future. I've added a few new gadgets to my blog as well. I'll do better making more regular posts!

Oh My Gosh! COMMENTS!

2010-12-24T08:14:00.001-07:00

I didn't know how to check my site for comments, I just noticed them! Egad, I usually am Johnny-on-the-Spot with responding to emails and such. I'll read through them and see if there are any ones I can still respond to...to all that requested something from me, I apologize. I need to find out if the comments can be emailed to me...geez.

Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays to all!

2010-12-24T07:58:00.002-07:00

My cars are usually in the garage during the winter in North America, but I drive them when there's a snow-free day. The Delorean needs new front shocks - both are gone. This is disappointing because I just replaced them. I have found a source for better shocks, Delorean Performance Industries.

My Panoz has a new scratch near the driver's door lock, I wonder where that came from. I think it got keyed while I was at a store yesterday but I can't prove it. You can't get upset about things like that, if you're going to drive a car it'll get road rash.

I may be considering moving this blog, if possible, to a new one based on a more recent email address. I want to get rid of my old address and this is one more thing that needs to be moved. I'll update this blog if/when I do that.

Happy Holiday season to everyone!

Scottish-Irish Festival in Estes Park, CO - Sept. 11, 2010

2010-09-14T18:49:00.008-06:00

What a great parade and festival! I stayed at the Stanley Hotel and got to visit with the Rocky Mountain Delorean members.

Another Sunday, another show...

2010-08-30T19:03:00.003-06:00

This past Sunday I made it to the JFC (Jubilee Fellowship Church) Car show in Castle Rock, CO. It was an afternoon show starting at 1:00pm. It's nice not to have an all-day show sometimes.

Front Range Airport Car Show

2010-08-22T09:36:00.006-06:00

I attended the Front Range Airport car & air show this past Saturday. I took my Panoz rather than my Delorean (yes, I know this is a Delorean blog...) because my friend, Dan, was bringing his Delorean. We met Dan along the way and 3 of us from Tri-Lakes Cruisers (plus Dan) all parked together. I'll post more photos from my other camera in a bit. It was a hot day (any car show in concrete is hot!) so I left about 12:30 and made it to the Stocker's Car Show at the Garden of the Gods Visitor's Center about 4:00pm.

I won, but not with the Delorean!

2010-08-17T19:24:00.005-06:00

So I was in one of my favorite car shows this past weekend, the Good Times Car Show in Old Colorado City, CO. I drove my Panoz (owned it all of a week!) and my son, Reese, drove my Delorean. That was his last weekend with us, next weekend he'll be at CSU in Fort Collins, CO.

Anyway, my Panoz won a plaque in its category. My joke is that I had to buy a car to get a prize, so can I buy a car next year for another win? I also saw a beautiful Austin Healey MK 3000 at the show. I met another Delorean owner, Loran Smith, at the show as well.

I did it!

2010-08-09T18:30:00.002-06:00

I don't like the white registration paper in the windshield, but otherwise I took the car to GOTG for a photo.

I did it!

2010-08-09T05:43:00.001-06:00

I know this is my Delorean Blog but until I get a new one, I'll use this. I flew to Chicago this past weekend and bought a 2004 Panoz Esperante GTLM. I drove it back through Illinois, Iowa and Nebraska. Pretty neato!

I can't believe I'm actually considering this...

2010-07-31T08:43:00.006-06:00

So the wife has approved another automobile purchase...I finally found a Chili Pepper Red metallic Esperante! These are rare cars, no longer made, but were manufactured in Georgia as late as 2006. They're build on an all-aluminum modular frame, have aluminum body panels and a carbon-fiber interior/cabin...nothing can rust!

Should all go well I'll fly out to Illinois and look the car over. For the curious, it has an SVT Ford V-8 engine, supercharged, with 420hp. It also has a Tremec 6-speed transmission. These are street-legal race cars!

Missed the Thin Air Nats Car Show today

2010-07-17T16:30:00.004-06:00

I paid to be a participant, but got up too late to do anything but spectate. I got to see this beautiful 1937-1937 Talbot sedan, worth 7 figures. The owner was upset that people were touching it and regretted bringing it to the show, but I hope I convinced him to bring it again. I've never seen one in person until today...who says car shows aren't educational?

Independance Day Parade - July 4, 2010

2010-07-15T07:19:00.003-06:00

I was in the Monument, CO July 4 parade, and took the wife and dog. It was far better attended than I had guessed it would be, and I'll do that parade again...

BTTF Movie night in Glendale, CO

2010-07-15T07:14:00.005-06:00

Glendale, CO had an outdoor movie night in early July, and the featured movie was Back To The Future. About 5 Deloreans showed up for the movie...

Prom night in a Delorean!

2010-05-02T18:22:00.003-06:00

My son got to take my Delorean to Prom 2010...neato!

Shock damage

2010-04-29T20:47:00.004-06:00

I hear that many Delorean owners that have the Eibach suspension have failures at 2 years...I wish I had known not to get OEM shocks for replacements, live and learn I guess. Note that one shock was broken in half, the other had the bolt hole bent oval!

Denver Car Show 2010

2010-04-16T06:45:00.004-06:00

Great car show, lots of attention for our cars even though we were in the back, behind the RVs, near the rest rooms.

Tech Session in Early April 2010

2010-04-05T19:48:00.003-06:00

We had six Deloreans at a tech session, focused on A/C and plumbing. Most left with a better car, at least one diagnosed with fixable problems.

2010-03-16T17:57:00.002-06:00

We had a great time at the 2010 Denver St. Patty's Day parade! We had six cars in the parade.

I'm on the Orphan Car Show brochure!

2010-03-08T20:28:00.002-07:00

While inquiring about the 2010 Orphan Car Show in Golden, CO I discovered that they needed a new photo. I submitted my car's photo and made this year's selection for their website, flyers and brochures...see http://www.buffalobilldays.com/orphan.php .

More maintenance!

2010-02-20T11:23:00.004-07:00

I have about $400 worth of maintenance on my car to do: new water pump, new upper ball joints, fix a leak in the transmission, fix leaks in the plumbing. The wife will surely be happy.

First Car show of 2010

2010-02-17T19:19:00.002-07:00

I attended the Pro-Promotions indoor car show this past weekend (Feb. 13 & 14, 2010). I even took Fourth place in the Sports Car category, which was totally unexpected. Fox News sent a producer and video guy to film footage for next year's Auto Show commercial. They stopped at my car. The producer is shown in one of the photos, she looks no more than 25. It was a great show, and the 4th place win was a bonus.

First Charity show of 2010!!

2010-01-31T14:22:00.007-07:00

I had a charity exhibit for the Divine Redeemer Catholic School last night at the Antler's Hotel in Colorado Springs, CO. I had as much or more traffic in just a few hours as I get all day at an ourdoors show. It also helped that an Elks Convention was going on at the hotel, so as many Elks stopped by as school folks. Unbelieveably, two older ladies did not know what a Delorean was. The last photo is the hallway I had to drive down to get the car in front of the event ballroom. It was a challenge to back a Delorean around a 90-degree corner.

New charity

2010-01-07T20:32:00.002-07:00

Divine Redeemer Catholic School needs a Delorean for their fund-raiser on January 30, 2010. I'll be there, and am seeing if I can other kinds of cars there.

Denver Auto Show a possibility

2010-01-02T09:04:00.002-07:00

The Rocky Mountain Deloreans may go to the Denver Auto Show, either to exhibit or to view the show...see http://www.paragonexpo.com/399_Home.html

My baby's back!

2009-12-18T21:57:00.001-07:00

Fuel leak fixed, control arms and rattle fixed, engine runs better, it's like a new car. Merry Christmas to me!

Surgery almost over

2009-12-14T19:58:00.002-07:00

The new control arms and ball joints are in place as of this afternoon. Tomorrow the fuel accumulator and air filter will be installed. I should be able to pick it up in the afternoon on Tuesday. My baby's back!

Oh and I forgot - Import Auto Technicians on Academy Blvd. in Colorado Springs is the best!

Turn your head and cough...

2009-12-08T17:53:00.004-07:00

My car is awaiting parts. A new pair of lower control arms and ball joints, as well as a new fuel accumulator and air filter. My new mechanic, Import Auto Technicians, will be working on the car. He thinks he can halt the engine surging with the new fuel accumulator. I hope so, but would've thought that the manufacturer would've known the accumulator is bad.

In any case the car should be ready for the Feb. 13 car show in Colorado Springs. I look forward to driving it again as soon as the snow is gone.

First show of 2010 applied for today!

2009-11-19T17:59:00.002-07:00

I just sent off my entrant's form for the first show of 2010, sponsored by Pro-Promotions. These guys put on a great show every year, and what's really great about it is that it's indoors! They get great attendance in winter, so you feel like it's worth your time to be in the show. They do great things like require a photo of your car, and they don't let 50 Mustangs in. They guarantee a good mix of cars and bikes, and they take up the entire Expo Center in Colorado Springs so you're not sharing your car with the Metaphysical Fair fruitcakes.

Show: Feb. 13 & 14, 2010
Where: Phil Long Expo Center, I-25 and Academy Blvd., Highway 83
Time: 9:00am till 6:00pm (Sat.), 10:00am till 5:00pm (Sun)

Visit Pro-Promotions.com for details

Showing off the cars - again

2009-11-08T20:43:00.004-07:00

I met Jim and his family today. His sons wanted to see a Delorean after seeing one on the highway a couple of weeks ago. My friend Dan brought his car to Westminster and we both met Jim near Hwy 104. Jim also created a neato logo for our car club...

Cleaning - the last time this year?

2009-11-07T19:37:00.002-07:00

I'm making the trip to Winchester, CO on Sunday so a Dad can show his sons a Delorean. My friend, Dan, will be there also. I'm just cleaning my car for the trip tomorrow...

Denver St. Patrick's Day Parade in 2010!

2009-10-10T14:57:00.002-06:00

I've signed up our group for the Denver 2010 St. Patrick's Day Parade. Our group, the Rocky Mountian Deloreans, won the car club award for the 2009 Colorado Springs St. Patrick's Day Parade. The Colorado Springs parade committe invited us back for 2010, but the majority of Delorean owners live in Denver/Englewood/Aurora, so I think we should move the event closer to other owners for 2010.

The Denver parade is March 13, 2010, starting at 10:00am. See you there!

Cruisin' Above the Clouds

2009-09-13T14:52:00.009-06:00

I went to the Cruisin' Above the Clouds in Woodland Park on September 13. It was cloudy and cool, and then it turned cold, downright cold. One Lotus Elise owner, whom I have met at the British Conclave last year, let me sit in his car. It was, well, different just trying to sit in the car. I don't think I'm capatible with an Elise.

The Colorado Conclave!

2009-09-10T17:49:00.002-06:00

I'm attending the Colorado British Conclave this Fall, Sept. 19 & 20th. Deloreans are somewhat less-than-preferred attendees, as the car was made in Northern Ireland for the American market. Our Delorean group has been invited this year and I hope several owners attend.

Visit http://www.thecoloradoconclave.com

I went to a Drive-In!

2009-08-23T15:47:00.007-06:00

I got to see our Rocky Mountain Delorean Owner's Group (RMDOG) founder again, Shane Clarke. Dick Ryan (from Steamboat) and I made it to Wellington, CO (near Ft. Collins) to visit his home and go to dinner and a Drive-In movie. I haven't been to a Drive-In in 10 years or more.

Buffalo Bill Days Orphan Car Show, Golden CO

2009-08-05T04:36:00.011-06:00

The first car show I ever visited in Colorado was the Buffalo Bill Days event in Golden, CO two years ago. I didn't have my car then, but went with a good friend, Dan Haney, as he showed his Delorean. It was such a nice day that I decided I liked shows, and made sure I attended this years Orphan Car Show in July. We had a good turnout of Deloreans, and even got a spot in the Denver Post. I took my wife and so did several owners, so the wives had a good visit. I got the usual "Flux Capacitor" jokes, cocaine jokes, John Delorean's still in jail comments, but it's all part of the gig.

I always learn things at car shows, and I disovered a 40's brand of car I had never heard of - the Crosley. Made in Indiana or someplace, it was a tiny car meant to compete with the VW and got 50 miles per gallon. They were tiny cars, made of thin metal, and had small 22 hp engines. I was surprised to see them running. I also saw a couple of Bantams, the designer (but not manufacturer) of the Jeep.

The Stocker's Car Show, July 18, 2009

2009-07-19T19:51:00.008-06:00

I almost forgot about the Stockers Car Show at the Garden of the God's Visitor's Center in Colorado Springs. I had a few "sitters" - i.e., people who sat in my car without asking permission. And this time it was adults, not kids. Darn adults.

Parked safe and sound in Colorado...

2009-07-11T17:13:00.002-06:00

My car is parked for the weekend in my garage whilst I'm in New Mexico at my wife's high school reunion. I would've liked to have brought it for the 8-hour drive, but the allure of very cushy seats, a working speedometer and cruise control made me pick another car. I'm taking a day off work next Friday to get my car to Haglin Automotive in Boulder, CO for some work.

Speedometer repair scheduled...

2009-07-09T17:42:00.004-06:00

I'm scheduled for my speedometer repair on July 17, 2009 at Haglin Automotive in Boulder, CO. I'm taking a day of vacation to sit with my car as I need it the next weekend for a car show. I'll have my brakes checked and a few minor things while I'm there.

I made June and July wallpapers!

2009-07-03T16:57:00.005-06:00

Ta Da! Photos that I took of my DMC-12 made both the June and July 2009 wallpapers on the Delorean Motor Company website. Owners submit photos of their cars and the company selects the best for their free wallpaper location, see http://www.delorean.com/emailmore.asp. I have another shot planned I hope to submit to them later this year, which is a view of Pike's Peak shown through the front windshield showing the cabin of the car. It'll have to be taken with a fisheye, but I happen to own one of those so I'm looking forward to getting the picture.

Holiday: Great! Speedometer: Kaput

2009-07-03T16:49:00.004-06:00

With some diagnostic help from the DMCTalk.com website, I believe my angle drive (speedometer gear) has died an untimely death. Angle drive, I shall miss thee. While it's not terribly expensive to replace, it's only got 5K miles on the drive. Thank heaven I can replace it using the car jack...

Relay for Life Event - I went to two of 'em!

2009-06-20T16:50:00.005-06:00

Charles K. brought his BTTF Delorean and I took photos. Those who donated $1 or $5 got a printed photo on the spot. I left my event at 9:45pm and made it over to another RFL event where a co-worker was running.

Tri-Lakes Cruisers Show - Monument, CO

2009-06-14T20:15:00.007-06:00

So I spent today in downtown Monument, CO at the Tri-Lakes Cruiser's Benefit Car Show. There was quite a nice mix of old and new cars. The newest was Porsche Boxster that had just had its first oil change. My favorite was the 1930 rebuilt Chrysler with a rumble seat. I won no awards but it was a very nice day for a show!

Impromptu Car Show

2009-06-13T15:19:00.003-06:00

So I was getting my hair cut today and my barber told me of a carshow in a grocery store parking lot. I visited and showed my car just long enough to see the other cars. These two delightful young ladies were promoting a luau for a restaurant and must have been freezing. This is the first time females have been photographed with my car! I shoulda sucked my gut in I guess...

Golden, CO - Old Folks and Cars

2009-06-07T21:30:00.004-06:00

I had a delightful day at the Golden Pond Living Retirement, with a later visit to the Golden Super Cruise. I drove around town in the evening with my doors up, and got to meet quite a few car owners. I will have to make the Super Cruise again, perhaps next month...

Car Show with Old Folks!

2009-06-04T19:42:00.002-06:00

I just found out about this car show, I'm going to try to attend (but they may be full). That same day there's a Cruise Show in Golden, CO which I will be attending. See ya there!

Tri-Lakes Cruisers Car Show - Hub Car Wash

2009-06-04T19:38:00.005-06:00

I attended my first Tri-Lakes Cruisers car show at the Hub Car Wash and Diner this past Friday, May 30. The food was great, and so was the car wash (my wife took our Toyota through the wash). There were about a dozen cars at the show. Most unusual were a Ford GT, Viper and a Z06 'Vette.

Informal Car Show with Tri-Lakes Cruisers

2009-05-29T06:09:00.002-06:00

I've joined my first (formal) car club, the Tri-Lakes Cruisers of Monument, CO. They have a very informal car show this Saturday, May 30, at the Hub Car Wash and Diner. I'll be there at 8:00am for breakfast and to meet the group. They consist mostly of American cars, but many members have several. What I like about them is that they have regular meetings at a fixed location, something even my group of fellow Delorean owners doesn't have. See you there!

Next show: VMCC in Canon City!

2009-05-13T20:48:00.002-06:00

I'm attending a Veteran Motor Car Club of America's car show at the Holy Cross Abbey in Canon City, CO this Saturday. It looks to be better/bigger than my recent Pueblo State Fair car show, if for no other reason than the number of cars and anticipated weather. Come to the show!

Not Delorean related...

2009-05-02T11:32:00.003-06:00

...but I bought the wife a car last night. It's a base model RAV4, V6, Super White with "sand" color interior. I wanted leather seats (to match my jammies) but Toyota bundles $6,000 worth of options to get them.

Outlaws Hot Rod and Custom Car Show - Pueblo, CO

2009-04-25T22:16:00.002-06:00

I went to the Rod & Custom Car Show today in Pueblo, CO. The weatherman said 65 degrees today...well, it was 38 most of the day, brrrrrr. The sun came out the last 45 minutes of the show but I froze my rump off most of the day. Lots of cars, but not as many visitors as I would've liked...

Puzzles for fun...

2009-04-23T21:25:00.001-06:00

Pretty cool, prices are reasonable at http://www.portraitpuzzles.com/, pretty good service.

Best Car Club Award on St. Patrick's Day!

2009-04-22T20:32:00.003-06:00

Our Delorean club won the Paddy Wagon Award (best car club) from the St. Patrick's Day Parade committee. John O'Donnell (left) presented the award to Matt Crabtree (center) and myself (right) at McCabe's Irish Restaurant last Saturday. I have my first authentic Cabbage & Corned Beef, wow - it was great!

2009-04-19T19:06:00.001-06:00

This is my first mobile post to my blog!

I fixed it myself!

2009-04-19T18:54:00.002-06:00

I used my emergency fan belt and replaced to blown belt this past week. It took about 2 hours, and would take half that time if I were to do it again. It was a very educational process, and gave me an appreciation for all the mechanics in the world. I had to wedge the new belt between the crankshaft and the heat shield, no small feat. I've taken my car for a highway spin and checked my temp and voltage...all good.

Fan Belt Woes

2009-04-14T20:56:00.005-06:00

I lost my water pump/alternator fan belt today, on my way home from work. I darn near red-lined the water temp before I could stop. I lost the belt at the worst possible place on my way home, a part of the Parkway that has no exits or pull-overs. I got a tow home (love you, AAA!) for two miles and drove the car off the flatbed and into my garage.

We won the St. Patrick's Day Parade!

2009-04-08T20:29:00.001-06:00

To: 2009 St. Patrick’s Day Parade Award Winner!

Congratulations! Each year the parade committee singles out the best looking entries in several categories. Your unit has received an award for your participation in the 26th Annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade. A “Best Of” Awards presentation will be held on Saturday, April 18th at 11:30 a.m. The Ceremony will be held at McCabe’s Irish Restaurant, 520 S. Tejon Street, Colorado Springs. Stay and Celebrate your victory with a meal, if your pocketbook & schedule allows!

Please RSVP to let me know how many in your group will be attending. Please call Carol at xxx-xxxx. Please plan on attending as we would love to see you there.

Thanks again for participating in the St. Patrick’s Day Parade and congratulations to you and your group for your win.

Slainte’

John & Carol O’Donnell

Car forum jokes...

2009-03-24T20:04:00.003-06:00

Bentley Forums - - - I used the ashtray today. How do I replace it?
BMW Forums - - - What ARE these orange lights on the corner of my car for
Lamborghini forum - - - Wind noise around 210MPH.
Camaro/Firebird Forums - - - My girl slept with my brother and my wife. How can I kill 'em? btw, I have a record and I ain't going back.
Mustang forums - - - Some punk kid in a Civic tried to race me.
Monte Carlo forums - - - Why do I keep getting pulled over, it ain't stolen yo.
Civic forums - - - Some punk kid in a Mustang tried to race me.
VW Bug forum - - - The Save the Earth concert was a success.
Yugo Forum - - - When's the last time yours ran?
Miata forums - - - Some redneck jackass in a Chevy Tahoe just ran over my car.
Chevy Tahoe forum - - - Miata stuck in my undercarriage. How do I safely remove it?
Pontiac Fiero forum - - - Just bought a new flame retardant suit.
BMW 7-series forum - - - Where to get service on my Rolex?
Cadillac forum - - - Problems parallel parking at bingo.
Chevy Suburban Forum - - - Is the price of gas going down anytime soon?
Buick Forum - - - Is Medicare or Medicaid right for me
Delorean forum - - - Just got back from the future and blew a head gasket. Please help. I'm from 1985.
Crown Victoria forum - - - How come people never pass me on the highway?
Honda Accord forum - - - Mom is giving me the car. Looking for some cheap, used 18 inch rims.
Toyota Echo forum - - - Do our cars use AAA or AA's?
Ferrari forums - - - Need suggestions about a business trip to Colombia. Want to get in and out fast.
Porsche forums - - - Tire just went flat. Is it best to trade or sell the car myself?
Jaguar forum - - - Is the carbon fiber dash kit group-buy still on?
Mercedes forum - - - My wife and her stink hole lawyer are trying to ruin me in divorce court. How do I get them both killed and not get in trouble with my medical board?
Mini forum - - - Just flipped the Cooper after seeing The Italian Job. Suing the movie company.
Dodge Viper forum - - - I frightened myself on the way home from work yesterday. How to get pee stains out of the leather?
McLaren F1 forum - - - Some punk kid in a F16 tried to race me.
Dodge Minivan forum - - - Where's the best place to post the soccer schedule so I don't forget where I'm supposed to be?
Hummer forum - - - Had a fender bender today. 24 hurt, 10 killed. Do I have to get the black touch-up paint from the dealer? He's 25 miles away. That's $450 in gas.
Fiat forum - - - Hello? Am I the only member?
Subaru WRX forum - - - I hate cops. Got ticketed for drifting in the Walmart parking lot.
Supra Forums - - - Head too big to fit in car, should have bought a Targa.
Ford 2.3 forums - - - Help! Replaced everything, still doesn't start!

St. Patrick's Day Parade

2009-03-14T22:37:00.003-06:00

My son Reese and I participated in today's St. Patrick's Day Parade in downtown Colorado Springs. There were 5 Deloreans in the parade, it was great!

Sure is a different climate here!

2009-03-05T08:38:00.001-07:00

Houston is very pleasant right now...ask me again if I'm here in August when it swelters but it's wonderful in the Spring. I'm idle at my hotel until someone from DMCH calls to let me know what's up with my car. No sense in going to DMCH, I have an Internet computer here at the hotel, A/C and a bathroom to myself. It's rare I get this time alone so I'm enjoying it. I've never made so many Facebook entries, ever!

Well, I made it to Houston!

2009-03-04T18:10:00.002-07:00

I'm in Houston to have my car tweaked by DMC. They think they can get to all but one item on my wish list, great! I should have a spanking-great car when I leave on Friday. I then go to Dallas for a couple of days and see some old friends at the North Texas Irish Festival.

I won third place!

2009-02-25T20:46:00.003-07:00

Yup! I won 3rd place in the Sportscar category at the ProPromotions show. I had my first car show damage, a little girl pulled up part of my door seal that stays puckered to this day.

I'll be heading off to Houston, TX next week for a day of repair/adjustment at the DMC factory then off to the North Texas Irish Festival in Dallas. There are about 10 Delorean owners going to the NTIF, and I'll be amongst them showing our purchased Irish goods (a.k.a., a Delorean). I hope to run into several old friends from the DFW area.

Car show today!

2009-02-14T06:02:00.001-07:00

I'm in the Pro Promotions Car Show today...

I found a trailer to match my Delorean...

2009-02-07T18:18:00.002-07:00

I was at an RV show today and found the perfect matching trailer for my Delroean...an Airstream!

Taking movies back to the store...

2009-01-25T16:05:00.002-07:00

...while it's snowing. I got several people who pointed at the car at intersections.

It's fixed!

2009-01-14T21:02:00.008-07:00

Ta Da! I whacked a shopping cart in a parking lot a few weeks ago but just got my car back today from Blosser's. They did a great job on the front facia. It looks as good as original.

I fixed it!

2008-12-20T16:44:00.008-07:00

So here is my documentary on changing a high-beam on a Delorean. It would be MUCH easier with the front facia off! The new lens doesn't match the other high-beam exactly, but that's OK.

A shopping cart chased me...

2008-12-14T10:14:00.002-07:00

...at WalMart and the shopping cart won. Looks like I'm ordering a new high-beam Xenon headlamp from DMC Houston and getting my front facia painted. Merry Christmas to me!

Ode to my angle drive

2008-11-16T21:00:00.002-07:00

I tried in vain to service my speedo gears this weekend, but broke my grease gun. I'll try again next weekend. You have to take the wheel off and get between the disk brake rotor and the fiberglass wheel well.

Hand-washed the car for the last time in 2008...

2008-11-08T17:00:00.005-07:00

...I think, anyway. It's turning cooler and I've likely washed my car for the last time in 2008. I tried to glue some of the weatherstripping on the passenger door, but made a mess of it. I'll have to dye this CANARY YELLOW glue black with a sharpie. I want to mee the chemical engineer who made adhesive YELLOW. And meet him alone...

Club meeting today!

2008-10-26T20:26:00.002-06:00

We had a club meeting in Littleton, CO today. Three Delorean owners showed up, including me. We swapped out a mode switch for one owner, changed his oil, discussed politics (I was hoping for a politics-free meeting but...this is America!). We had a nice lunch at a local sports bar. It was nice to run into the guys again before it gets cold. I wonder if we'll meet during the winter, I sure would like to...

My car's back!

2008-09-27T16:43:00.007-06:00

I've had my car at Haglin Automotive for a minor A/T leak and a suspension adjustment. I gave the car a wash today (it really needed it, it must've sat outside a week!) and drove the wife & dog to Cripple Creek, CO to see the aspens turn. I'd never been to Cripple Creek, which resurrected itself by allowing gambling. There were busloads of senior citizens arriving to spend away their social security checks.

The weather was great, no need for A/C, fantastic winding roads in the mountains.

Went to GOTG again, but at a better time of day...

2008-09-06T15:18:00.003-06:00

So I went back to Garden of the Gods for another photo of my car. This time it was in the morning, at a better time of day, when the light was right. I wish there had been snow on Pike's Peak with white puffy clouds, but it's Summer now. It was still a nice day!