Third annual Northeast spring rally now known as the NE Mountain Melee May 18-20

**rsr1975** · 05-30-2012, 07:10 AM

Raj,
+1...No Raj laughter, no Raj scarves, no Raj hotrods.....it was a much less colorful event without you....but still really cool. How does your weekend look for getting together?

**Mr9146** · 05-30-2012, 09:37 AM

You were definitely missed by me, too, Raj. I had a seatbelt for you...

So, to round out the journey I put my car up on the hoist first thing this AM to see how it held up over the last 5000+ miles of abuse. I'm happy to report that it went through the ringe and came out virtually unscathed.

There are a few ground-down threads on the front sway bar studs and a few dings and dents in the floor/gravel pan because of my aggressive ride height but, other than cosmetics, the car was 100% flawless. The bolt in the driver's side output flange had worked itself loose but that's nothing to write home about...a 5 minute fix.

Average mileage was 19-20mpg with a carbureted 2.5L which I'd say is pretty awesome. The oil was a bit smelly because of the extended overly rich mixture resulting from extended driving at 5000+ feet, but the oil in both the motor and trans came out clean.

My already noisy trans is a tad bit noisier, but fresh oil should buy me some time before gear/bearing replacement is in order...not too shabby considering the trans was a found item with extensive water damage and worn out dogs.

If I had to cap this trip with a saying it'd probably be: These cars are still relevant.

From Streets of Willow track day to Treffen to NEMR and then across the county in the span of 3 weeks ... even I'm impressed at what the old dog could handle.

**Jens** · 05-30-2012, 09:56 AM

Still relevant and tough as hell.

**Jim Garfield** · 05-30-2012, 10:24 AM

Marco, I'm really glad that you made it out for a second year. It was fun having you around, and it sounds like you had an interesting drive west. Did you stop at any tracks after Indy? It was great to spend some time with Tony too, he's a funny guy and I really enjoyed talking with him.

Raj, It wasn't the same without you. Nobody can fill in for Dr. Sexy..........

**Macroni** · 05-30-2012, 11:08 AM

Originally Posted by Jim Garfield

Raj, It wasn't the same without you. Nobody can fill in for Dr. Sexy..........

too true.....

**Mark Morrissey** · 05-30-2012, 03:12 PM

Since you cats are sending love to Tony and Marco, I'd like to buy a ticket for that train as well...

When I was in Southern California a few weeks ago, I arrived at TLG unannounced ... those guys took time out of their damn busy day to check a few problems with my car and in a little less than 2 hours had corrected several problems. I was able to have a much more enjoyable Treffen thanks to Marco and Tony. Thanks guys and especially Marco who really did the work. Thanks for the stories Tony. It's great to get to know you guys. P.S. They have as many steering wheels as I do but are quick to point out that they're a car shop and are suppose to have them. I have no idea what they're talking about.