Paul Dobbin

Thanks, that's what I thought. I'm going to order a topper in canvas from Tommy's Trailers in Ada, OK but wanted to check first if some new cover had appeared where I missed it. Thanks Paul 1934 Ford V8 Fordor 1935 Buick 8 Sedan 1935 Ford Pickup 1966 VW Bug 1977 GMC Eleganza III Motor Coach 1979 GMC Caballero

We live in the original target, Tampa Bay. All is well here. The newspaper said a car collector in Arcadia with 15 cars in a metal building had the building collapse on the uninsured collection. Another big collector and friend to all Ford people, George Mitchell lives and collects cars in Punta Gorda. Have had no word from him but expect everything is more important there now than email. Paul

I'm still searching for light weight towing to get our cars To & From Tours. I'm now using an 1100 pound aluminium open trailer. Problem is the cars ride out in the weather and get filthy in transit. Enclosed trailers add another 2500 pounds that is to much for our antique motorhome to tow in the mountians. Has anybody seen a car cover than can be used on an open trailer when towing? I think the problem is flapping, Any ideas?

I also think that a guideline for what the HPOF judge is looking for would be of great help in retaining new members. I've been to three Natioanl Shows. The first two were with HPOF cars and the third was for DPC. The first time was with a driveable 1935 Ford Pickup (barn find). It was complete and original, not pretty but 100% functional. No HPOF designation was granted. No explanation either. (I wrote) The second time was with our Founders Tour car, a 1966 VW Bug. It was complete and original with the exception of radial tires and and Foxcraft fender skirts. No HPOF designation was granted. No explanation either. (I wrote) The third time was for DPC in our Glidden Tour Car, a 1934 Ford. A great driver, but not competitive show quality. DPC Certification obtained. Guidelines would help attract and keep new people. I also think these two classes of non competitive judging would benefit from the reasons for non certification being made available to the entrant. These two HPOF experiences made me less likely to ever do HPOF again when I get an original gem.

Earl, With all the modern choices in paint, to get that old fashion lacquer look, use Urathane. First use an epoxy primer. It's a great sealer and eliminates all the problems of 50 years of non compatible finishes. Second, like others have said, good preparation makes a smooth finish. Third, use base/clear with lots of clear. Four or five good wet coats of clear. Fourth, wet SAND the clear, progressing to 1500 grit. Fifth, BUFF the clear. You'll get a flat surface with the lacquer look. Word of caution: This will lead to a much better finish than a 56 Buick had from the factory. But, it will stay pretty.

1. Figure at least a double bay for the work area. 2. A laundry sink. Running water inside is a must, even if it drains to the ground out back. (hose bib over a sink) 3. If you don't have a bathroom, at least have a pee tube to the outback. 4. Have an intercom from the house to the garage. Have the house doorbell ring in the garage too. 5. Separate the finished cars from the work area. Even if it's a curtain. Sometimes, like painting or grinding the mess travels. 6. Buy more lights than you think you'll need, Old age steals your vision. 7. In Florida mine has A/C, in Ohio I'd have heat & A/C. 8. Put the windows up high for the light. 9. Lots of shevling to keep the floor empty. It makes it so much easier to keep the place clean. 10. Cross ventilation the work area. East west gets the best breeze. FINALLY. Like everybody else says make it bigger than you think you'll ever need. You'll still be jammed in a few years.

Try Daytona Trophy in Daytona Beach Florida. They are car people and have tons of in stock artwork or will use yours. They are fast a reliable. Paul

Now there is only one really great answer to that question. Remember we as a club like to restore and drive really old cars, so that favorite movie title can go to only one movie. "Two Tars", a Laurel & Hardy film made right before talkies. They destroy about 2 dozen cars in a halarious story for the Two Tars (sailors)played by Laurel & Hardy. The whole thing is them trying to impree two girls. If you've seen it, you must agree. Great movie to show at local club meetings and try to identify all the wreckage. That's my VOTE. Paul

Did I miss it or did the AACA not offer Glidden Tour information for this years Glidden Tour? I had a bunch of potential Glidden Tourists waiting for the opportunity to request the information package on the 2004 Tour. Is it not offered when VMCCA hosts the Tour?