Hi Guys
Since my last report the teams have moved out of Alaska via Whitehorse and
the funky trailer that doubles as a Canadian immigration/customs post. This
place is so remote it takes 10 hours to drive from the nearest town. The
single officer on duty here works 7 days on and 7 off and has to live in the
office!
As expected some of the cars are now picking up some body damage, The Hunts
Healey had a minor off, but no lasting damage was done. The Lancia Flavia
broke an axle and went backward down a bank. A local custom shop is trying
to beat it straight enough to continue while they try and source an axle.
The Chevy Fangio Coupe also had an 'off' and rolled but survived with
extensive damage but nothing that would prevent the car running. The rescue
teams Land Rover Disco has blown the engine and they are no trying to
convince a local British army detachment to 'lose' on of theirs from the
vehicles that they have. Knowing the British army, if they can talk to the
right man. Then anything is possible,.
The big old Lagonda has blown an engine after swapping places so many times
for the lead on this rally it is a shame if it has to go out of the event.
But, they have found another Lagonda with the engine intact and are trying
to purchase or borrow the parts required. With a piston and con-rod hanging
out of the side of the cylinder block the work required is extensive!
The Citroen 2CV has had a gearbox rebuild in the hotel foyer as this was the
only place with enough light. The Buick found a new wheel bearing in a local
parts store so it is happy once again.
The Porsche 356 has been 'off' several times and has picked up some
punctures as a result of the wrong tire choice and it has dropped a few
places as a result.
Placing
The Packard still leads the oldies with the Citroen about 1 hour behind. The
Ingham Bentley is in 6th place some 12 hours behind on the time. There are 3
Bentleys left in the Oldies class but all the Rolls have gone out or left
the event.
Teh classics are still lead by the Giles in the Hillman Hunter closely (15
hours further back!) followed by the Peugeot 404 then a gaggle of Mercedes
and in 7th place the XK 140 Jaguar of Meeus. Some 20 mins behind the Jaguar
in the Barry Weir Aston, the Dyke-Price Healey and the Porsche 356. The
Hunts are now in 16th position. Astons can also be found in 19th and 23rd
place.
The Team Healey Facel is still in the event but is struggling with a sick
engine and some body damage, it does not look good for the trek across the
Sahara it the car has so many problems in BC. For a certain Studebaker fan
the commander is now in 22nd place some 29 hours behind.
BTW I have posted some more pictures of the event on the website below.
Regards
John J Black
Waterloo Drivetrain Systems
http://www.waterloo-dtr.com
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