LOG 29

[sparecr]

For those that don't know it but LOG 29 will be in Birmingham, AL with many events taking place at The Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum, Talledega Raceway (including laps of the track, maybe at speeds so you can experince the banking), etc, etc.

The website for the event is up at www.log29.com check it out. There were 25 or so 7's (Lotus, Caterham, Birkin, Ultralite, Westfield) at LOG28 in Indy, we want beat that number, right? I will give everyone who attends in a 7 -wait for it---- ONE DOLLAR!!!-- :banghead: if the 7's count beats the Elise count.

[Ian7]

We've competed at Barber a couple of times, and without a doubt, the highlight of the trip is the museum.
Whatever other commitments you have to shorten/postpone/cancel to do it, make sure you give yourself a half-day minimum in the museum.
We had only 60 minutes inside at the end of a test day, and barely scratched the surface. GO !! no really, GO!!!!!!!

[Al Navarro]

We've competed at Barber a couple of times, and without a doubt, the highlight of the trip is the museum.
Whatever other commitments you have to shorten/postpone/cancel to do it, make sure you give yourself a half-day minimum in the museum.
We had only 60 minutes inside at the end of a test day, and barely scratched the surface. GO !! no really, GO!!!!!!!

Ian, I hope you know that current USA7s Club Prez John V. is one of the restorers in residence at said museum. I'm sure he could arrange for a special "Se7eners-only" tour....(at least I'm hoping he can!!!)

BTW, I think I will make this pilgrimage, even if I have to fly in without the family.

-Al

[Ian7]

wow, didn't know that.

as incredible as the museum is, if a 'private' visit to the "Alladin's basement" (where all the cool Loti are seemingly stashed) could be arranged...

[Al Navarro]

I'm pretty sure that John works in basement you mention....and has, as part of his job, "exercising" the cool Loti on the nearby race track.

[sparecr]

Now come on. I do work in a basement and it is a horrible place, but I can maybe work something out for a tour, we will see as the date draws closer and I figure out how many minutes I have free.

If you really want to spend time at the museum you may want to come early, if you check the schedule online it is a a busy weekend. The racetrack is even shooting for a vintage race that weekend.

Oh yeah rough job....
http://www.usa7s.org/aspnetforum/upload/1818162789_101_0903.JPG
http://www.usa7s.org/aspnetforum/upload/847881759_101_0911.JPG

[breezy7]

Checked out the LOG 29 website this morning and the schedule of events, LOTS to do. I went to the musuem years ago and it was amazing, 4 or 5 floors of motorcycles and a few cars. From what I understand the number of Lotus cars has expanded quite a bit from my last visit. Having a vintage race the same weekend as the LOG is a great idea, the number of cool sportscars that come to a vintage event is unbelievable. How many club members are planning on attending? Count me in as 1. Mike

[yellowss7]

So are Caterhams welcome and allowed to play along with the "real" Loti?

Seeing a vintage race of old Lotuses should be worth the trip in itself.

I just hate the thought of Towing the trailer for 2 days one way. :ack: :ack: Tom

[Ian7]

I just hate the thought of Towing the trailer for 2 days one way. :ack: :ack: Tom

What are these words "towing" and "trailer" :confused: :confused: :confused:

Myself and a friend (who lurks on this board occasionally) drove a pair of Caterham's from Montreal to Road Atlanta and back for Log xx about a decade ago. Best part of 4500km, 2+ days each way. Won ourselves the iron butt award for it...

Near as I figure, Barber is an excellent reason to beat that record. Maybe we pick you up on the way by?

[yellowss7]

Thanks Ian.:d I bow to your superior Posterior. I think that I'll stick to a nice leisurely drive pulling the 7 along. It would be fun to follow a few other sevens down, but I think my Hearing and body would be toast after 2 days of the battering. Remember, without the doors the wind really beats you up at speed. And I don't want to look like a total geek by wearing my helmet.

:jester: Tom

[S1Steve]

This seems like a good excuse to make a road trip.
If the S1 is welcome, I would like to bring it with me.
Sorry Ian, but I to will tow down there, ( Old, beat up
lower back). From all I have seen and read, seems like
my kind of place.
:)Steve

[yellowss7]

Looks like we've got ourselves a convoy!:d :d :d

Steve, let's talk as the Log info firms up. Maybe our fearless leader here can reserve some primo trailer parking spaces for us Se7eners. Right John? :cool: Tom

Hey John, can you get me a ride in a 23B too? :d I've always wanted one. I'd like to see if I fit. Tom

[S1Steve]

Sounds good Tom, Bring your Brain Bucket, we will have
get in on the track event if they have one.
John, I'll be the guy standing behind Tom for a ride
in a 23B, how do you like your steak cooked and what
kind of beer to you like.
:lol: :lol: Steve( I'll buy a ride ) Novelli

[DeanG]

Be assured that S1s, Caterhams, Birkins, Westfields, homebuilts and ... are welcome at Lotus Owners Gatherings (LOG). There is a long tradition of accepting any and all Se7ens. Several manufacturers’ representatives have been sponsors of LOG over the years (and there are sponsorship opportunities still available)


There will be many activities with quite a few driving based. From the Event Schedule posted on the web site www.log29.org

Autocross
Car Control Clinic
Mountain Drive
Talladega Speedway Laps
Vintage Race-Lotus Feature

Please feel free to PM me if you have any questions.

[yellowss7]

Any chance that there will be laps on the Barber Motorsport track? Tom

[Al Navarro]

FWIW, I am planning on going, car or no car....hopefully with car.:d

Caravan from the Northeast? Can someone run point on organizing that?

[yellowss7]

New car, Really?:hurray:

I think I coul be persuded to do some leg work. However, I don't drive fast when towing, so it will definately be a two full day trip for me. I'll set up a thread to gauge interest level, then we can go off line to figure out the details. Sound like a plan? Tom

[bball7754]

Monday's track day is at the Barber Motorsport track.

Steve

[Al Navarro]

New car, Really?:hurray:

I think I coul be persuded to do some leg work. However, I don't drive fast when towing, so it will definately be a two full day trip for me. I'll set up a thread to gauge interest level, then we can go off line to figure out the details. Sound like a plan? Tom

I think we do make it a 2 dayer for sanity's sake...at least on the way down. On the way back, people can leave whenever they want and drive at their own pace.

Count me in +1. I doubt Laura will come, but I could probably drag a buddy.

[scannon]

I'm planning on LOG 29 as well. The trip is a twofer for me as it is the Miata's 20th Anniversary celebration the prior weekend in Dallas. I'll be towing the Caterham from Denver and driving it at both events. Since it has a Miata powertrain, it works for both events.

I'll be looking for something to do in the days between Dallas and Birmingham, anyone know of any track days available during that week?

Skip

[DeanG]

We will be towing our 7 to LOG 29.

With a bit of luck we can participate in all the driving events. Certainly in the autocross and the driving clinic. If the car is up to it I would like to take a few laps at Talladega and the go on some of the back road drives. The big question is if it can generate enough speed to stay in the group. I don't think the car would be allowed in the driver education track event at Barber. No doors, no rollba and no head brace make it a bit too risky. Time and warmer weather will tell.

A bit of an update. Since its last outing at the LOG 28 autocross it has received some work.
- The leak in the brake line running down the tunnel was found and a new brake line installed.
- New fuel line was installed
- New fuel pump installed
This makes it drivable. The problem I'm chasing is that on hard turns the drive shaft coupling to the differential rubs on the frame. In trying to fix this problem the following has been done:
- Shim the A-arm to center the differential
- Switch to high strength fastners so the washers don't stick out past the flanges
- Turn down the flanges of the drive shaft and differential
- New rear springs
Its better but still not good enough. The next job is to machine and fit longer shims for the rear springs.

[Ian7]

The problem I'm chasing is that on hard turns the drive shaft coupling to the differential rubs on the frame.


Hi Dean,
Got me curious, what's your basic rear suspension design?
Ian

[11Budlite]

Ian - The rear suspension on the Series 1 should have two curved upper trailing arms with a lower a-frame on the passenger side for lateral location. This is the best picture I could find:

http://www.usa7s.com/aspnetforum/upload/501226958_s1raxle.jpg

The series 2 had a wider based lower a-frame for lateral location like this:

http://www.usa7s.com/aspnetforum/upload/714032500_sevWalters05.jpg

Bruce :7drive:

[Ian7]

Yeah, I've got the series 3 style A frame; pretty hard to generate a lateral shift unless one or more of the bushes are worn out, that would be the first thing I'd check.
If its a high lateral load car, think about a switch to rod ends...

[DeanG]

11Budlite's picture is dead on for my (our) S1.

It has all new bushings; front and rear, even new engine and transmission mounts. Some of the rear suspension work involved welding up old elongated holes or welding washers over the holes to stop some of the suspension movement.

Our current thinking (me and the guy doing the machining and welding) is that as the rear springs compress too much. The flange contacts the tubes at the rear of the saddle that holds the back of transmission tunnel. The seat is not perpendicular to the floor it leans back. So, as the spring compress the flange moves up and gets closer to the tubes. We hope that spacers between the spring and spring perch will help out.

Ground clearance measured just in front of the rear wheel fenders is as follows:
6 1/4 light fuel load, nobody in the car, pull up on the back of the car and release
5 1/2 light fuel load, nobody in the car after a bit of a drive
4 1/4 light fuel load, mechanic and myself in the car

Our aim is to get it to have 5 1/2 inches of ground clearance with us in the car.

The old springs were a bit long (approximately 2" longer than the known specs) and had a stiffness of 55 lbs/in. The new springs are the standard length have a rate of 75 lbs/in.

[Taber10]

All,

I'm new to the "car club meeting" business, but would really like to go to the LOG 29. Pictures of the hotel lead me to believe that I will be parked a long way from my room. Is this a problem? I have been very reluctant to leave the Caterham in a motel parking lot, esp. where I couldn't watch it from the window in my room.

I understand that if you TOW the car with the right trailer, then you can lock it back up in the enclosed trailer. However, that also means that each of us would need about THREE parking spots. Does anyone know if the Hotel has that kind of parking room?

I'd rather drive the Caterham--Birmingham is only about four hours from me. Really nervous about leaving the car in some parking lot for three nights or so.

Any info would be appreciated.

[scannon]

I asked about this when making my reservation at the hotel. They have secure parking for attendees (at $9 per day) and "a lot across the street" for trailers and those who do not wish to pay for the more convenient parking.

I will be towing my Caterham in an enclosed trailer and plan to use it as my secure garage during the event.

Skip

[sparecr]

The parking is in a deck so your car will be covered and there is security. There will be a detail place on site if interested. Trailer parking will be reasonably close. The goal is to limit your concern for your car.

[DeanG]

The latest and greatest LOG forms have been posted on LotusTalk, there is currently a problem with updating the LOG 29 web site (http://www.LOG29.org).

LotusTalk LOG 29 web site notes (http://www.lotustalk.com/forums/f220/log-29-web-site-now-available-61266/)

The zip contains the registration forms:
* General Registration
* Autocross Registration
* Track Registration (think high performance driving education)
* Technical Inspection form for Autocross and on-track events

Be prepared for some possible news about the on-track that may be of special interest to those who drive Se7ens!

[breezy7]

The latest schedule for LOG 29 is available at Lotus Talk http://www.lotustalk.com/forums/f220/log-29-a-59987/index4.html#post1204191

[Taber10]

I'm in the process of registering for Log 29, and as part of that, joining the Lotus Owners Group for a year.
A question: Is the Saturday night buffet "worth it" for a 7 owner? Not really into formal dinners anyway, but I could envision an evening of discussing the club administration, suspensions on old Elites, the Formula one seasons (past and upcoming) etc. None of this would be as entertaining to me as a gathering of 7 owners at a less formal venue. What have you guys done in the past? Just looking for guidance before I sign up for--and commit another $100 to--a formal dinner!

Taber

[scannon]

If its set up anything like LOG27 the banquet will be where the guest speakers do their thing. Not sure who is scheduled but 27 had Emmo, John Egan, Bob Dance and Bob Darley. A very entertaining evening. They also gave out a lot of door prizes and the trophies for the concours as well as the autoX.

Get together with other 7 owners and share a table. The only time for discussion is the cocktail hour and during dinner. You should be able to avoid any discussion of Elite suspensions.

I recommend everyone attend.

Skip

[Taber10]

Thanks for that advice!
I made my hotel reservations today. We should start a list or at least a count of the LSISs going.
Taber

[slngsht]

John V sent me the registration forms... I will be posting them tonight.

[sparecr]

The Saturday banquet is normally good fair food. At LOG 28 there was the Evora intro, some interesting talks, Clive Chapman gave a talk, then Bob Dance and one of his Lotus shop mates told stories about the "happenings" at Lotus in the late 50's and 60's.

This year the orginal drivers of the X180R Esprits will be doing some speaking (I know Doc Bundy is one of them). Clive Chapman will be in there, possibly a really big guest (to be confirmed), and ...

Yeah I know a $100 is a lot for the dinner, but there should be some memories included in the price. That being said I am working on an alternative dinner place for those USA7ners that don't want to go to the Sat. night dinner. Please let me know if you are in that group (PM or email is fine) that way I have numbrs to work around.

[DeanG]

A totally revised LOG 29 (http://www.log29.com) is up. There is updated information on the schedule, drives, track events...

To many of us the big news is that there will be:

:7fume: a track day run group for open cars:hurray: That means that our Seven can drive Barber

:jonautox: a Se7ens only autocross group

:7head: several driving tours


Note that there is a lot of information "hidden" in the various web pages. A through read will pay dividens

[yellowss7]

Dean, where are you finding this info? The only reference to 'Open Cars" was that they are allowing those Factory Convertibles with pop up roll bars to participate. I haven't seen anything that is a 'Sevens' only track run group.

As for the autox, I'd love to run with the street tired 7's but running on Hoosier Slicks is just too much fun. Do I read the tech inspection form correctly in that it requires an independent mechanic to inspect and sign off on the form?

Other than my hotel reservations, I haven't reqisterd for Log29 yet as I'm waiting to see what events the USA7s group may be running that may conflict with the Log events. Tom

[DeanG]

I did not mean that Se7ens get their own run group, but that open cars and full convertibles can run

For other open cars we will have paced laps at highway speeds -- U.S. not German! I defy anyone to take every turn at 75 mph. You will still have fun.

I had previously spoken with Jim Roberts the track day coordinator and he indicated that my Seven would be OK for the track. I would contact him if you had any specific questions.

[yellowss7]

My Bad. I had assumed that my FIA rollbar would be fine. I plan on fitting the Petty Strut as well to be extra safe. I will ping Jim re: my seven. However, having never done a track day, I plan on being in the Novice group and getting passed alot. :eek: :d Tom

[sparecr]

LOG29 updates

New improved website www.log29.com

Special Guests (subject to change...)
Doc Bundy, Andy Pilgram, David Murray the orginal drivers of the Lotus Esprit 180R's. And all three 180R's should be in attendance and running.
Peter Egan
Clive Chapman (Colin's son, owner of Classic Team Lotus)
Bob Dance (Jimmy Clark's mechanic)-we may be able to get Bob for one of our events is there intrest?
Evora
Remember Barber's has one of the largest collections of Lotus in the world 45 cars right now (and over 600 motorcycles on display)

Most of these guests will be wondering around so LOG29 entry is not required. To go to the dinner to see them speak...

For those who are planning to come and don't want to do the LOG and Lotus Ltd entries fees. There is going to be a Car show at Barbers the same day (entry fee no yet released, so you can get into track without ticket and still take part in a show.

The LOG co-chair has many LOG29 threads at http://www.lotustalk.com/forums/f220/ if you need even more info.
I WILL HAVE A USA7S SCHEDULE BY MONDAY! I PROMISE.

[sparecr]

I am sorry I have spent the last two days with in LOG planning. I have the "final" event schedule, which will be posted at log29.com in the next day or so. SInce our meetings took 2 days not 1, it will be tomorrow before I have our schedule done. After the changes yesterday we will have more time for our events. I thank you for your understanding.

[powderbrake]

Still looking forward to the USA7S schedule for Birmingham, so I can decide on which Log 29 events to register for.

[sparecr]

Sorry for the delay. Working out a few things. This is the basic schedule, some things may ajust from here but it gives you an idea.

If you have suggestions please let me know.

I could not figure out how to get a file on this site so I did stick an excel spredsheet on a website I had laying around. I will get a pdf there ASAP.

www.pristinial.com

[sparecr]

Hey I should be seeing the driver's education guy tomorrow, please if you have questions about tech or roll bars or email them to me. Please use appraisals@pristinial.com that way they can be easily found on my phone.

[S1Steve]

Hi Everybody,
After reading John's last post, it seems that we are going to follow the LOG 29'schedule. And that is great, if I missed something,help me out.
I was wondering if USA7's was going to have our own event, even if it's going to a bar and having a few ,to put a screen name with a face????
Has anyone signed up for an event???
My wife and I are really looking forward to LOG, and just want to have as much fun with all of you as we can !!!!

I am ready to go Now !!! Steve:party:

[DeanG]

I suggest a get together breakfast on either Friday or Saturday. Friday has more open time for those who will be around and who are not taking the scenic rout to Talladega. On Saturday there will be more folks around however the Departure Staging for Concours starts at 8:00 AM.

[Al Navarro]

I'm pretty sure there is at least one "USA7s only" sub-event at LOG...for starters, we have to have a club meeting/election.

Oh, and I'm working on some shirts that make it easy to pick out 7ers from the rest of the Lotus nuts.

[yellowss7]

Al, How about, " my Lotus handles better than your Lotus" as a logo? :d

Or "My Lotus is lighter than your Lotus"

Or of course the old standard "too fast to race"


Either of these with a 7 on it would work.

Tom

[sparecr]

The schedule is set so that there are drives on Friday and Sunday for us if you wish. The Drives LOG has planned are inexcess of 100 miles at times and I don't think many of us want that long of a drive or can go that far without refueling.

the quick schedule for USA7s is

Thursday- nothing

Friday- A drive from hotel to 29 Dreams for lunch (there is a $5 cover plus food $6-17) after lunch we will go to Barber's Vintage Motorsport Museum (USA7s/LOG covers your weekend pass). I will conduct a personal tour for USA7s members. After which we will return to hotel so those that want to do the LOG dinner will be back in time. For those that are not doing LOG, the local British Car Club is having a cookout and we are invited.

Saturday- We will mirror LOG for the concour, again if you are not paricipating in LOG there is a second car show going on at the racetrack and you are more than welcome to enter ($20ish, includes 2 tickets to the NASA race that day). I am working on an alternative dinner for those not in LOG. The group picture will also take place Saturday afternoon at Barber's

Sunday- I figure everyone will want to go to the autoX for a period of time, after which we will do a short drive and end up somewhere (to de decided) to have the club meeting (elect officers, BS, talk) It is possible (AL and Mazda have not been told until now and still working on confirmation) but Bob Dance may came to to this event as our guest. For those who don't know Bob was Jimmy Clark's mechanic, worked for Lotus since 1959, and is still employed by Classic team Lotus. No he really doesn't have lots to do with 7s but he is a great guy to talk with and is a die hard wrech turner. Kind of like the Locosters, the racers, the Mazda's in the group.

Monday- Driver's Education day at Barber Motorsports Park (ie spend time on track with your car)

Due to costs and insurance you have to be entered into LOG to do any of the track(Drivers Education), autoX, or Accident Advoidance (skid pad (wet and dry), salom, etc) events. The Barber track rents for in excess of $15,000 per day and this is the only way for us to have an event and use the track. To be honest the track cost is so high that Lotus Ltd. has asked the SE region of Mercdes-Benz Club of America to come along to help with costs. The info for roll bars, arm retranits etc is being rewritten now so it is easily understandable and I will let you know when that is posted. But basically if it road legal (or a race car) you can do Talledega, autoX, certain paced groups in the driver's education. All entrants for track day will need to have a pasenger seat so you can be signed off. If you do not have a passenger seat please contact me as the belief is you are a real racer and need to register as an instructor.

Hope this helps. Questions goto appraisals@pristinial.com

Thanks
John Viviani
President USA7s

And and I vote to fast to race

[sparecr]

Forgot to mention

When and if registering for LOG be sure to put USA7s as your club and your screen name used here. We are going to be identified as USA7ners on the badges. All the name badges are going to contain internet screen names as that is how many of us know each other either here, LotusTalk, whereever.

[S1Steve]

Al,
I like " Too Fast To Race"

Steve

[sparecr]

I was asked off list and since I am the club president I think I should address for those that do not know.

I do work at the Barber Museum so that gains us a few things. Discounted admission tickets, the private tour, the ability to push into some events. I am a member of Lotus Ltd. (I have owned numerous Lotus cars over the years, but down to the Caterham now). I am on the board for LOG29, which has allowed USA7s to have an excellent work relationship with LOG.

I will be attending the day events that are on the USA7s schedule. Due to my job (and the fact I want to hear the speakers) I will be attending the evening LOG dinners. I hope you understand.

On a side note even though it has been said for past LOGs Clive Chapman (Colin's son, owner of Classic Team Lotus) has given us the go ahead to say that Hazel Chapman will be at LOG29. She won't be speaking but will be in attendance. She rarely makes public appearances so if she makes it it will be an honor.

[MickOpalak]

I look forward to meeting all of you at LOG this year.

If you have any questions about the event at all feel free to contact John or myself (at info@log29.com).

[MickOpalak]

I'm a sports car nut. I love Lotuses. I'm on my third one. I've always admired the Seven and have never been in one.

Would someone at LOG 29 be interested in doing a little switch, perhaps on one of the mountain drives? I drive your Seven for 15 minutes and you drive my Exige S265.

What do you say?

[DeanG]

Mick; If nobody gives you a better offer you can drive our series 1. Do you care if it is RHD?

[Boxologist]

if i can fit in it, sure.

[Ian7]

Mick, if I'm there, you're welcome to try my live-axle Classic series 3.

(Trick will be getting me out of the Exige.... )

[Taber10]

I know I am getting anxious, very early, but I mailed my check for LOG 29 registration. Without the dinner, it was still over $200, and I didn't sign up for any driving events that cost money. I know early registration doesn't end until April, but I think if I am committed financially, I will be able to take a harder line when my Boss decides I should work that weekend! Hope to see you all there.
Taber

[MickOpalak]

Wow, thanks for all the offers. I've never driven a RHD car before. Should be interesting.

[DeanG]

From the posts I have been able to see 19 folks have committed to LOG 29. Not a bad number of early birds.

Al Navarro, monster?
bball7754
BobDrye
Boxologist, "Snake Bit" 7 SV
breezy7
DeanG, 1958 Lotus Seven series 1
Flibbie, Stalker
Hudson, VX7
Ian7
powderbrake, Ultralite S2K
rich,
RDROCKT, Ultralinte S2K & XR7
S1Steve, S1
scannon,
slngsht
solder_guy, Toyota Rotus Seven
sparecr, 78 Caterham Twin Cam
Taber10, 2007 Caterham 7 SV
yellowss7, 2000 Superlight #123




As I believe I posted earlier we (my wife and I) will be at just about every event from the go-cart through track. We look forward to seeing many of the people from the Dragon there.

[scannon]

The doc sez no Caterham for a year, but I still have my hopes up and a hotel reservation and I am working hard on the PT.

Installed a removable steering wheel this week which might make it easier on my shoulder.

I'll do my best to make it.

Skip

[yellowss7]

I guess it's time I get off my butt and send in my registration form for LOG29.

I'd rather spend more time with you guys so I'm curious as to what the dinner plans are for most nights. John V. said that there are lots of local restaurant options.

So what's everyone doing for meals? Who signed up for the LOG dinners? How many are winging it?


Tom

[pksurveyor]

I plan on being there. I probably will take the Landcruiser because we plan to continue our driving trip to the Carolinas and Georgia.

[DeanG]

The doc sez no Caterham for a year, but I still have my hopes up and a hotel reservation and I am working hard on the PT.
Skip

What kind of Quack Dr puts a restriction on fun?

[scannon]

What kind of Quack Dr puts a restriction on fun?
The kind who just fixed a severed rotator cuff and two detached muscles in my right shoulder. Thanks Dr. Z. :)

If I tear it again there isn't enough left to patch it up again and I'll have to live with some lost function of the right arm not to mention a lifetime of pain.:eek:

There will be other events if I don't make this one, I'd rather have my shoulder fixed and no pain than risk tearing it out again.

I'm way ahead of where Dr. Z and the PT lady thought I would be by now so I have some hope of making it.

[DeanG]

I guess it's time I get off my butt and send in my registration form for LOG29.

Yes it is!

I'd rather spend more time with you guys so I'm curious as to what the dinner plans are for most nights. John V. said that there are lots of local restaurant options.

The hotel is attached to a large shopping mall so there will be the typical mall food. I tasted my first and only Chick-fil-A at LOG 24. If you want to eat well and inexpensively consider the picnic option. If someone who is driving a more spacious (like a Landcruiser - hint hint) volunteered, a USA7s picnic committee could be formed. Birmingham BBQ, yum!

So what's everyone doing for meals? Who signed up for the LOG dinners? How many are winging it?

We signed up for all the meals. It is very convenient for what will be an extremely busy schedule for us. We will only have to scrounge for breakfast on a recurring basis. Much of the planning for dining is ad hoc. There will definitely be groups forming for Monday night dinner.

Our plans are still unsettled. We may arrive in Birmingham as early Tuesday as we still haven't seen most of the tourist sites.

[yellowss7]

We are arriving on Thursday.

I'm leaning toward:

The Thursday R&T reception

The Friday evening reception or the British Car Club BBQ

Saturday ??? do we have enough interest in a 7's table??? or other dining options.

Sunday Winging it.

Monday Winging it after the track day.

Tom

[DeanG]

The best seats get reserved quickly. If you want a Se7ens table get a list of names for those who want to sit together then have someone get to registration as early as possible and sign up for a table.

All the Lotus Ltd board members will be assigned to a table in an attempt to get us meet new people. So my seat at the banquette is up to the LOG organizers

[pksurveyor]

[QUOTE=DeanG;28221]

The hotel is attached to a large shopping mall so there will be the typical mall food. I tasted my first and only Chick-fil-A at LOG 24. If you want to eat well and inexpensively consider the picnic option. If someone who is driving a more spacious (like a Landcruiser - hint hint) volunteered, a USA7s picnic committee could be formed. Birmingham BBQ, yum!


The Landcruiser is available as the food hauler.

[DeanG]

Good man. Thanks. That gives people options.

[DeanG]

Are there any updates concerning the USA7s events?

[DeanG]

From the posts I have been able to see 20 people who are active on the forum will be attending LOG 29. Many will be have their significant other... in attendance. Looking good.


Al Navarro, monster?
bball7754
BobDrye
Boxologist, "Snake Bit" 7 SV
breezy7
DeanG, 1958 Lotus Seven series 1
Flibbie, Stalker
Hudson, VX7
Ian7
pksurveyor
powderbrake, Ultralite S2K
rich,
RDROCKT, Ultralinte S2K & XR7
S1Steve, S1
scannon,
slngsht
solder_guy, Toyota Rotus Seven
sparecr, 78 Caterham Twin Cam
Taber10, 2007 Caterham 7 SV
yellowss7, 2000 Superlight #123

[yellowss7]

Yep, it's now official. I finally mailed in my check this morning. Just need to change the brake fluid, and get my inspection checklist done and signed. New Toyo R888 are mounted and just waiting for the Hoosier slicks to arrive.

Even did an epoxy fleced paintjob on the trailer floor. :D

See you there. Tom

[DeanG]

Even did an epoxy fleced paintjob on the trailer floor. :D


What was the substrate?

[yellowss7]

Dean,
A Plywood floor. I gave it a coat of Flix(sp) primer first. then a coat of the Epoxy, chipped it and then two coats of clear. Looks good. I bought some .063 Diamond plate aluminum squares that I will locate under the tires to avoid the typical problem of hot tires pulling up the epoxy. I also used the powdered aluminum silicate mixed in with the clear coat on the ramp to minimize slippage.

Tom

[Al Navarro]

BTW, what events are people signing up for? I am about to fill out my form and send in, and want to hang out with all the cool people (that means anyone who has, wants, or has had a seven, of course)!

[yellowss7]

Al, I've signed up for the Thursday reception.

the Friday evening reception

the Saturday Lunch

the Sunday Autox

the Monday Track Day

That leaves us open for various Dinner options on most nights.

Tom

[pksurveyor]

I plan to skip the Saturday night dinner too.

[sparecr]

I have been sick latley and not getting things up. Give me a day or two and I will have a form for our people to fill out to let me know who is coming so proper arrangements can be made. But quickly

Thursday Peter Egan Dinner

Friday Dinner LOG also Local British Car Club welcome dinner (2 different dinners, 2 places, see below for details) would be nice if you were entered into the British show ($25) if you are not entering LOG, will get you into thier free (or minimal fee diiner) and the track (saturday) for LOG, the British Show and to watch the NASA racing, you will be able to diplay your car with the Brits, not LOG if going this route. www.sportscarsinthepark.org

Saturday Main Dinner, speach by X180R drivers, Evora stuff

Sunday BS Levy Dinner

I will be registering for Thursday and Sunday not sure about Friday, probally not Saturday. I can arrange designated tables for USA7s if we want at the LOG dinners.


It would be nice if you were entered into the British show ($25) if you are not entering LOG, will get you into thier free (or minimal fee diiner) and the track (saturday) for LOG, the British Show and to watch the NASA racing, you will be able to diplay your car with the Brits, not LOG if going this route. The British Club is also planning a Breakfast Sunday at the same place I am looking at having our business meeting. www.sportscarsinthepark.org

If you have questions please give me a call 205-470-0191

[DeanG]

Our current plans are to leave LOG on Tuesday morning and head to either Tapco Lodge or Fontana Village. Anyone else interested?

A small group is forming.

http://www.lotustalk.com/forums/f220/tail-dragon-after-log-29-june-1-2-a-71601/

[drew...]

Where can I get information on the tech inspection for the Monday track day? Will the standard roll bar pass inspection? Do we need to have a Snell Automotive helmet or will the Snell 2005 motorcycle helmet be accepted?

[DeanG]

Look at the site http://www.log29.com/ for forms... some of the information is buried in prose but it is there.

"We will check your helmet (auto or motorcycle ok but must be a 95 or later)"

Email the coordinator with specific questions.

[yellowss7]

What was the substrate?

Sorry it took so long to post some pics. Better late than never.

[Boxologist]

:( Going to bail on this event this go around.

[Al Navarro]

My check is in the mail. Thursday Night, Friday Night and Sat Lunch. I'm planning on leaving after the auto-x (got to cheer on my Philly region SCCA pal Tom G.) on Sunday afternoon, splitting the trip back into an overnight.

I'm still open to caravaning down. BTW, if someone from the Northeast wants to tow, I have an open trailer and we can split gas for the Pilot. Planning on leaving Wed, sleeping over somewhere, rolling in to Birmingham midday on Thurs...enough time to clean up and meet everyone at the Egan thing. Maybe I can sneak in some go-karting, but I didn't register for that.

[yellowss7]

Al, let's talk offline to coordinate the details for the trip down. I've looked at the route and leaving plenty of time for food, fuel and stretching, I think it will be a nice long leisurely drive.

You are still welcome to ride with us if you don't mind staying over on Monday as I'm going to do my first track day.

Or if you're bringing the trailer down in anticipation of bringing something back, I understand. :D

Tom

[Al Navarro]

TG-I'll shoot you an email soon. I doubt I'll stay another night...already pushing the limits of my admittedly generous paid time off calendar this year — what with LOG and the Beartooth drive!

As for the trailer, have you been reading my emails with various and sundry parties? Just kidding. But, if a fellow Sevener wants to spare him/herself the interstate time, I'll bring the trailer. Otherwise, I'll just have the Pilot.

[DeanG]

We have our reservations at Fontana Village for Tuesday & Wednesday after LOG. Dragon here we come.

[Al Navarro]

I'd love to drive 129 again and catch up with some of the locals, but it's going to be pretty much a sprint back for me on Sunday. I hope some of the others can join you and Claudia.

BTW, is the interior of an S1 red lamiplate? If so, where did you source it?

[solder_guy]

I can see going to the TOTD after LOG ...

BTW: What happened to http://www.tapocolodge.com/ ??? It's closed this season ...

Rob

[05 ELISE/87 TURBO]

so is anyone driving further than 5500 miles?
i am a lotus ltd member and am very excited to see three clubs gathering together!!!
though it seems there may be a few crossover members between lotusltd and usa7s.......
hope to see y'all in alabama!

[DeanG]

BTW, is the interior of an S1 red lamiplate? If so, where did you source it?


Our series 1 doesn't seem to have had much of an interior. I covered the dash with red vinyl that matches the seats. I don't see any evidence of any other interior trim.

At one time Keith sold lamiplate. Give him a call he is a good guy and a Lotus nut.

Keith Gustafson
Gustafson Specialty Products LLC
"The Forge"
44 Whittemore St
Gloucester Ma
01930
978 281 2012 voice
978 281 2116 fax
vze4wpzx@verizon.net[this address changes to fight spam]

[DeanG]

I haven't heard of anyone with more milage planned. A lot of miles.

[DeanG]

There will be more than a few people going to the Tail of the Dragon after LOG. The coordination appears to be centered on LotusTalk http://www.lotustalk.com/forums/f220/tail-dragon-after-log-29-june-1-2-a-71601/

[yellowss7]

Two weeks to go. Just waiting from one more package from Pegasus, with a few little odds and ends and I'm all set.

New Hooisers, New Toyo R888's, New trailer tires. Wife hasn't seen the Amex bill yet. :D

Picked up a few extra gallons of 100 octane GT race fuel this morning.

Oil changed, Brake fluid Changed, drained the gearbox and put in some Redline MTL. Secured new odessey Battery. Cleaned and oiled the Airfilter. Had my mechanic inspect the car for the event and signoff on the Tech inspection. Trailer passed State inspection.

Time to start loading up the trailer.

We plan to get in on Thursday afternoon. So where and when are we meeting up?

Tom

[drew...]

Is there a count of how many USA7's enthusiasts are planning to be at LOG29?

[MickOpalak]

The count is around 21.

[DeanG]

Yes, I know an Evora is a bit too luxurious for this crowd. Still I want one.

[MickOpalak]

Less than a week to go! I look forward to meeting everyone and driving all of your Sevens. =-)

[breezy7]

Will there be a sign or a flyer with the USA7s event schedule (times and meeting place) posted at the Wynfrey hotel ? Does my LOG registration cover entry into Sundays NASA racing or is that an additional ticket? See ya Thursday, Mike

[sparecr]

I will sending out an email to everyone who has "registered" via email today with a loose events schedule. I will also post here so that those who I miss on the email have a chance. It looks like less than 20 of us this time so we are keeping things loose.

[sparecr]

Sorry for the late notice but trying to get everyone accounted for and "registered". as of right now there are 12 USA7s members registered. It appears everyone is staying at the Wynfrey and has registered for LOG. There is one person who did not include this info in their email so I am unsure.

The majority is showing up on Thursday and more than half are registered for the Peter Egan dinner, sponsored by Caterham Cars (no doing on our part). USA7s was not slated to start until Friday so if you had not registered for this Q&A with Peter it could be interesting. The Official USA7s stuff will start at 1:30 at the Barber Museum. I am planning on giving you behind the scenes tour, a track tour, and possibly a track track lap (in a van sorry). This is the only time this is happening over the weekend, the basement floor is open for LOG on Saturday during lunch, but not the back areas. So please gather in the lobby of the museum by 1:30 on Friday. Friday evening if you are not attending the LOG welcome dinner, there is an informal car show at the host hotel for the Sportscars in the Park event. Just a parking lot shoot the shat pizza and BYoB thing. Some of the LOG special guest might drop by, might not. After this I plan on shooting over to the Wynfrey for the LOG Bar Scene.

Saturday is the day of shows and racing at Barber's. It appears most everyone is registered with LOG so all the Sevens will be displayed in that group. There of course is the Sportscars in the Park just up the hill from the LOG concours, and the SE Region Mercedes Club is having a meet in the park also. Lunch will be in the museum, if you registered for a LOG lunch. If not a "roach coach" will be up the hill for the lunch needs. I plan on doing the USA7s board meeting in the Atrium of the museum Saturday around 3. Saturday night is open events again more than half have registered for the LOG dinner that night, but I think we are going to get Al to take the other half out together, somewhere.

Sunday some will be autoXing and those who wanted the drive are in luck, we will be doing a drive from the hotel to 29 Dreams for breakfast, decent roads most of the way and after breakfast we will continue on Copperhead Road which has been compared to the Dragon, you make the call.

So yeah one drive, one show, a big track day, an autoX, a few good meals with buds hope it works as a nice casual relaxing weekend for all. Remember much of this was designed to keep costs low to the group and the indivdual, but allow whoever comes to have a great time. And if we want more excitment let me know via email, or say something Friday I try and keep everything fluid.


email with questions/comments
nodrivinggloves@gmail.com

[yellowss7]

It's now 4Pm Eastern Daylight time, and the trailer is now loaded up and ready to go.

I've loaded everything I can think of into the trailer and have more tiedowns and bungee cords crisscrossing the inside that it's like one of those spy movie shots where the agent tries to maneuver between the laser beams.

Just have to pack a few shorts and shirts and I'm ready for that 3 am alarm.

We plan on heading out west on the Pa turnpike to 81 south and then driving until about Knoxville Tennesse. If we can make it that far. Approx 600 miles.

We'll spend the night and finish the 300 miles or so to Birmingham on Thrusday and hope to get to the Wynfrey around 2 PM or so.

We'll be in a Yellow Dodge 1500 pickup towing an Enclosed Black Pace trailier.

If Anyone sees us on the way down, be sure to wave as you blow by us. :D

Tom

[solder_guy]

The weather looks great for the weekend .. Scattered Thunderstorms on Thursday though.

If everyone is registering for LOG .. I'm Non-Log. So does that mean I cannot hang with the USA7s?

Rob

[drew...]

LOG or Non-LOG, we're looking forward to putting faces with the USA7's names, see you all Thursday night!

[sparecr]

Knoxville to Birmingham is about 5 hours, do your best to get to the south side of Knoxville (and be sure to use 640, 40 is closed and they mean closed, just follow detour signs and you will be okay) I Just did Carlisle to Birmingham 2 weeks ago 12 Hours with my Ram 1500 and trailer.

No USA7 events are seperate from LOG, there is some overlap, but we have our own stuff planned in addtion to events we can piggyback on with the Local British club and LOG.

Just remember our stuff starts at the Barber Museum at 1:30 Friday, tell the front desk you are with USA7s or John Viviani. See the above thread for the basic details for the weekend. Please email me at nodrivinggloves@gmail.com so I can keep you updated on the happenings or check the Twitter page for updates of how the event is going at www.twitter.com/usa7s

[Al Navarro]

I'm flying out tomorrow AM, should be at Wynfrey by noon. I've got terrible allergies right now, which I hope don't slow me down too much this weekend.

[yellowss7]

Well, It's 9:40PM on Wednesday night and I am sitting in the lobby of the Wynfrey hotel.

:D:D:D We left at 3 am Philly time and drove straight thru. Had planned to stop around Knoxville on the first day and finish the drive in on Thursday morning.

Got to Knoxville around 3PM EDT and decided to push on as we were still feeling pretty good and the weather at that time was great. Had some rain on the way down early in the trip.

We arrived at 7:40 PM CDT. Didn't realize that we'd gain an hour.

We had dinner, a couple of drinks and now I'm going to catch up on some of the sleep that I missed last night.

See everyone Tomorrow.

Tom

[Al Navarro]

Online for the first time today...the buzz of various cars pulling up to the hotel has me constantly getting up to look out the window...just saw a Cortina pull out...tons of Elises, of course....also saw Dean G in the when I first arrived.

Yellow Birkin too, loaded up with luggage and carbon front fenders (or at least black ones...tough to tell from up here). I guess I'll run into folks at Registration...

[yellowss7]

Hey Al, where are you???

I've met up with Dean G, Breezy and his wife, the father and son from Fla. in the Blue and silver Stalker, so far.

Just spoke to a guy with a Lotus 2 11 parked out in front of the lobby. Pretty neat, he said he wanted a 7 but ended up with the 211 instead.

Tom

[Al Navarro]

Well, I'm taking a last little break before going down to the Peter Egan talk, the first major event of LOG 29.

When I was walking into the adjoining mall, I hear someone say "Al?" And golly if it isn't Ed Hudson, who had brought his QED Vauxhall powered Caterham down to 7-7-7 a few years ago. Ed drove an SUV down this time while the Seven gets some work done.

Then, on the elevators to registration...Tom G. waves me down. We chat for a bit, then Ed and I go down into the parking area to see what cars are there. A blue Stalker, a nice green Series 2 from NY, something small under a cover, and an ali and green Cat with Illinois plates.

Then back up at registration, I see a familiar face: Jeff P. from the Chicago area (he was on the second morning blat down at 7-7-7). And Jim D. and his son Jeff, who were also at Tail of the Dragon, in Jeff's Elise. Jim is the owner of the Blue Stalker, which turned 240-ish at the wheels in the afternoon dyno session.

I just realized that my version of iPhoto doesn't take raw files, so I'll have to switch formats and post later.

[Al Navarro]

Just got done having dinner with Ed H. and Tom G. & Tom's cousin who trailered down with him. We saw the Peter Egan talk, which was great...Chris Beebe, driver and mechanic extraordinaire was also there...apparently he's great friends with Peter Egan

Before the talk/Q&A, Ed and I were in line at the bar and this white-haired gentleman seems like he's cutting in front of us...after realizing there was a line he joined a group behind us — it's none other than Peter Egan himself, and I bought him a drink (a coke).

We ran into Drew R. and his wife Janet and also Taber T. and his wife. Then at the Egan/Beebe talk, across the room, I see Christine Nettleship and Scott, who sit with me. The Nettleships are here with a pretty red Elite.

Good stuff so far. Can someone post John's LOG plan to the usa@se7ens.net list? I think there may be some folks who aren't aware of John's gracious offer to host us for a private tour of Barber tomorrow, starting at 1:30 pm.

----

Forgot to mention that when asked by Lotus luminary Ross Robbins what got them into Lotus cars in the first place, both Egan and Beebe mentioned the Seven...in fact, Peter Egan said (following up on Chris' commentary): "Like Chris, I fell under the spell of the Seven." Amen to that.

[slngsht]

I will post it shortly. start posting some PICS!

[sparecr]

I was at the Wynfrey in the bar Thursday night with Clive and Bob, was at the Peter Egan thing for a short time last night and I have yet to see anyone. Guess I was on Stealth mode.
Look forward to meeting up today at Barber 1:30ish, come early if you wish and start looking around the museum it could take a day in itself...

After the tour everyone here will have the Twitter info in case they want to do quick updates... www.twitter.com/usa7s

[solder_guy]

I've just got my car together .. and hopefully on the way from Atlanta soon .. Maybe I can catch up with others at the museum tour??

12:22 EDT which is 11:22 CDT.

Rob Mitchell

[MHKflyer52]

Sure wish I could have attended just to get to see the museum if nothing else, along with the folks that I know and have meet in the past when I was back East.
Post some photos if you have the time along with a narrative of the events taking place as I know there are a lot of us that wish we could have attended.

[yellowss7]

Barber Museum tour was amazing!!!! Lotus collection is awesome, the Museum is an incredible place. 4 floors of Motorcycles stacked in every posible way you can imagine. Plus a storage area that held hundreds maybe a thousand more.

President John did an outstanding tour, and took us in groups of ten in a van around the track. He said that the owner wants it concidered as the "Augusta" (country club) of motorsports. It IS!!!

as for the track, I'm going to scare the piss out of myself on Monday!!!!

Tom

[Al Navarro]

Great day...about 30 people showed up for the USA7s exclusive "backstage" tour of the Barber Motorsports Museum.

Thanks so much to John Viviani and the Barber staff for accommodating us. He even took us out on a drive of the track (in a van, as promised, and not at race pace, thank goodness).

Great to meet and recruit some new folks.

Some pix before I go down to watch a film on Colin Chapman.

[Al Navarro]

John Ch. that first one in the last series is for you.....;-P

Final pic of this series is the 2010 Evora, which I'm pretty sure made its North American debut tonight.

[yellowss7]

Here's a couple more pics from the museum tour.

[yellowss7]

2 more favs.

[scannon]

Please put some names with the faces we are seeing in the pictures whenever possible.

That bare ali Lotus 11 almost stopped my heart when it came up on the screen. The red one is damn sharp as well.

[slngsht]

Guys, thanks for the pics... definitely miss being there this time around :(
Looks like an amazing place.

[Flibbie]

My son Jeffrey and I arrived from Fl. in my Stalker Thur. AM. Drove about 650 miles Wed. Spent Wed nite in Troy,Ala. (so. of Montgomery). Thur put the Stalker on a dyno for 3 pulls for $100. First pull was to ck a/f mixture. That looked good. 2nd pull showed spark plug gap too big. Reset plugs and pulled 240 at the rear wheels. I'm happy with that. Today went to Taladega race track for 4 laps. Great fun. Smoked a few Elises, only got up to 125 tho with a pace vehicle controlling our speed.
My son is taking the pictures this trip. So, I won't be able to post any until after we get home. Really surprised there aren't more LSiS's here. I'm guessing over 100 Lotus and less than 10 LSiS. Jim

[MHKflyer52]

Wow is all I can say.
Looks like the tour was outstanding from just the photos.

[solder_guy]

I did some finishing on the Rotus yesterday (Friday) morning and got on the road early afternoon on my way to Bir'. Rotus held the road pretty well .. although I-20 is not that great of a trek! Nice to see several sevens as I arrived at Barber. First familiar face was Al saying Hi. I got there just in time for the underground tour hosted by John.

Then on to the Quality Inn where the British guys and girls hosted a pizza beer social time. Great first night for me!

Rob Mitchell

[yellowss7]

A couple of pics from today. Mr. and Mrs. Breezy, and John Vivani piloting that beautiful Lotus 11 around the Museum Turn during the lunch break.

[Al Navarro]

Another great day here in Birmingham.

We had an official club meeting, where, among other business, the farthest traveled award was given to Drew and Janet R. -- over 1100 miles from Minnesota. They received a publisher's edition copy of Lotus Sevens & Independents.

Some pix attached.

[Al Navarro]

Assorted shots from the LOG concours...

[Al Navarro]

The folks who attended the official USA7s meeting today (there were probably at least a dozen more Se7eners here this weekend who did not make the meeting).

From left:

Standing-Ken J., Jeff D., Jim D., Rob M. (7/7/7 alum), Mrs. T, Taber (Mr. T), Christine N., Scott N. (Founding member, and 7/7/7 alum), Janet R., Drew R., Mrs. K, Paul K. (PK Surveyor...his and hers Caterham family).

Kneeling-John V., Al N., Tom G.

Since John literally has the keys to the place, we had our meeting in a relatively empty (and relatively cool!) warehouse. We thought it was ironic to pose in front of the largest vehicle we could find as a contrast to the cars we all love.

[Al Navarro]

I also have tons of motorcycle pix from the museum, but thought I would focus on cars...

[solder_guy]

Getting ready for the breakfast run over to 29 Dreams Motorcycle Retreat east of Bir'. I'm having a blast meeting new people .. not just 7s folk .. but all car owners at Sportscars in the Park ..

The Barber alone is worth the visit .. museum .. grounds and track! John has gone out of his way to make everyone welcome. Thanks John! (and his girlfriend too!)

I'm having a blast!

Rob

[Kitcat]

Any word on how Seven's fared at the LOG Auto-X?
Ditto today's trackday?

[Al Navarro]

Tom G would know about both, I'm sure. He was scheduled for both. I think the trackday was more of a HPDE thing, but I could be wrong.

On Saturday, there was a Series 4 lapping well in one of the run groups...and someone said there was a Birkin there too, though I didn't see it.

[Kitcat]

I know BBall was signed up and I was hoping he had upheld the honor of all of us other Crossflow owners:)!

[Flibbie]

As we (my son Jeffrey and I) got pretty sunburnt on our trip up to LOG on Wed. we decided to leave Sun eve and drive thru the night. We left around 5:30 PM and arrived home at 11:00 AM. Total trip, up and back, was 1832 miles, averaged 27.2 mpg. We had a great time. Met many really nice people. New to me was the fact that the Barber complex is owned by a Mr. George Barber. An ex-dairy farmer/owner. I always thought the complex was associated with Skip Barber. Jim

[yellowss7]

I bailed out on the Autox on Sunday. We woke up early, and went out to change tires and put the Slicks on and after that, removing the petty strut, and setting up the camera, tire pressures, etc. I WAS EXHAUSTED!

So, I figured that there was no sense in beating my self into the ground in the heat. I can autox anywhere, and The trackday was what I wanted to do.

I think I made a Good move. I talked to another guy who Auotxed and skipped the trackday because he was beat.

I think Steve was the only Caterham that autoxed, so he represented and won his class.

Driver ed on the track was a hoot.

Tom

[snettleship]

Just got back from LOG/USA7s meeting. It was great to see the Sevens there. I brought my Elite instead of the Seven since it is mostly a track day car now (not as good for 2 people since the passenger seat is out and replaced by an Accusump).

Here are a few pix...

[sparecr]

Sunday Drive group.....

[sparecr]

Monday's track day group. Sometimes you save the best for last.

[yellowss7]

and to give you some perspective, looking at the pic, I'm to the right of her and I'm 6'1".

:D Tom

[breezy7]

The attendance prize was pretty nice, thanks John, seems like there was some talk of increasing club dues to cover the cost. Maybe we can get Bass Pro Shop onboard as a sponser. Mike

[slngsht]

Bass Pro Shops rocks!

[sparecr]

See I let you guys down, forgot the theatre and Bass Pro.

I am not sure about a dues increase but next time there may be an registration fee. It may be hard to keep the registration fee at $0.00.

[Al Navarro]

Yeah, I don't think we'll increase dues by much. The biggest issue with that is that what about the majority of folks who don't make it to the national meet? A portion of their annual dues would be going to support the folks who attended. The dues go towards hosting the forum and regalia/swag, as well as the door prizes we've given at all of the major USA7s events so far this year (a publisher's edition of Dennis Ortenburger's "Lotus Seven & Independents").

In some ways, we got lucky that we were able to partner with Lotus Ltd. for this year. For future nationals, we may be on our own for trackdays and auto-xes (two topics that we need to revisit...because it seem like people want to do them, but perhaps not enough to host either on our own).

[sparecr]

Duh! I missed the joke. So how'd it tow on the way home?

[yellowss7]

We're Half way home. Drove about 460 miles today and have just about 440 to go. Should get home tomorrow around 3-4 pm.

If my track day video worked I'll post tomorrow nght.

Tom

[breezy7]

Tows like a dream, glad I opted for the Caterham towing package. It does fill up the rear view mirrors pretty good. Mike

[yellowss7]

Made it home safely. Got in around 3:30 Pm, unloaded the trailer and put it back in storage.

Had a great Time. Met loads of great 7ners.

[MickOpalak]

Thanks to everybody for coming. I hope everyone had as much fun as I did.

Special thanks to the gentleman who let me drive his French Blue Seven (sorry I don't recall your name but I met a million people this weekend). After just a short drive around Barber I'm hooked. I want a Seven before I die. Incredible experience.

[Al Navarro]

Pretty sure you're talking about Drew R....

[sparecr]

Yes it was Drew's car. And Mick now you know why I bought a Caterham instead of an Elise.

[Al Navarro]

Hey, who won the best Caterham, best replica, and best Seven at LOG? And also, did the Nettleship's pretty Elite win in class?

[DeanG]

My son Jeffrey and I arrived from Fl. in my Stalker Thur. AM. Drove about 650 miles Wed.

An epic drive and your car looks very good. It was a pleasure to meet you folks.


Dean G.

[DeanG]

We just got back home about 2 hours ago. I missed several Sunday driving events because of brain fade. It was probably just as well as high performance driving and brain fade do not make good companions.

Talledega was a hoot. I ran the car at full throttle for at least 1.5 laps although it was probably not the smartest thing to do on a recently rebuilt engine. When the cars in front of me slowed down to create a gap things got interesting. They would slow to create a gap then charge the corners. I would floor the throttle but not much would happen as I was so close to terminal velocity. I would then have to fight to stay up on the banking. It was great fun but I will admit to being a wee bit nervous. It was a joy to be following directly behind a beautiful type 14 Elite.

The Barber museum was fabulous. The luncheon was very good. The tour excellent. They do great work and the museum deserves support from anyone who likes Lotus or motorcycles. They even have an 1982 Yamaha RD350LC on display that is similar in all but condition and color to the one in my garage!

There were some great cars at the people's choice Concourse. It was easy to covet any number of the neighbors cars.

The track day was great. I missed the first run diagnosing and fixing stuck jets in both SU's! Being the slowest of the slow I didn't get many laps in each 15 minute session. I took it easy and had no incidents. I even learned a bit about the the track and driving.

From LOG we went to the Tail of the Dragon. I managed one pass on the Dragon and some of Hell bender. True Seven roads. I managed to get rained upon which made some of the drive even more interesting. The Seven does great on wet roads. The reduction in grip makes it even more smooth and responsive.

It was wonderful to meet and get reacquainted with so many Se7en people. I am sorry I didn't get a chance to talk with all of you.

[DeanG]

At least two Se7ens made it to the Tail of the Dragon / Hellbender on Tuesday & Wednesday (6/2/09 & 6/3/09).

[DeanG]

There are some cool Se7en pictures from the Tail of the Dragon http://killboy.blogspot.com/ Two of my favorite but then I'm biased.

[11Budlite]

That Series 1 is looking real nice Dean! Do you know who the owner of the yellow Birkin is?

[DeanG]

Thanks. I have no idea who owns the yellow car. The method of packing is cool. It reminds me of Tony V. on his expeditions. I can't even tell if the rear end is sagging or if it is powering out of a turn.

[slngsht]

Dean, your car is poetry in motion. very cool.

[11Budlite]

"The method of packing is cool. It reminds me of Tony V. on his expeditions." - My friend Ed had his Caterham at the British by the Sea show this weekend, and had a luggage rack that clipped over the spare tire mount on either side of the license plate flat section and strapped to the spare tire. It then had a flip down section that you could strap bags or a couple of folding chairs to. I really thought it was a neat, simple idea that expanded the carrying capacity without blocking the rear view. I'm either going to make one up similar or get the one from Caterham as long as it fits the Birkin. Looks like this:

[sparecr]

I have one of those little Caterham racks. It is such a pain, but when you need it for chairs at a show or a cooler it cannot be beat. Comes off and on with ease.

[Al Navarro]

Yellow car is Jack & Ruth Ann Norton of West End, NC...according to my notes.

Hope Drew chimes in on what it was like to drive the Dragon in his car....

[drew...]

We left Barber based on a GPS route to get to Fontana Village about 5 PM on Monday following LOG29. Got our first taste of the Dragon at 11:30 Monday night as the GPS took us right down 129. SUV and trailer with the Se7en tightly tied down inside, 2nd gear and try to stay off the yellow line. Really glad all the bikers had already turned in for the night. First drive - alot of white knuckle.
Next morning - what a different road in the daylight after shedding a few tons of weight! First time in the se7en a little tentative - getting a feel for the road. Actually got passed on the inside by a supermotard on one wheel in a hairpin, he had to be a local! Next passes were much quicker, the cruisers were very good about letting us by and the guys at killboy.com got some great photos.
That is an amazing piece of asphalt and we look forward to driving it again - hopefully with a bunch of se7ens. Still bummed we missed the big event 7/7/07.

[breezy7]

Drew, I have been trying to find a 3rd LED brake light similar to the one I saw on your car's rollbar in Birmingham but have had no luck. The one I have installed is a bit bulky. Can you give the source where you bought it and a part number? Thanks, Mike

[breezy7]

Peter Egan's new " Side Glances " column is availble online. http://www.roadandtrack.com/article.asp?section_id=26&article_id=8210&page_number=1 It is about his attempt to finish his Elan for LOG 29 as well as his trip to Birmingham and back home. Just a bit of 7 interest too. Mike