Hey Roger, see the Previous Posted message # 33 in this THREAD, page 4.Quote:
Originally Posted by rfoster
Gary S
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Hey Roger, see the Previous Posted message # 33 in this THREAD, page 4.Quote:
Originally Posted by rfoster
Gary S
SMART CAR:
I saw a diesel smart car in Halifax, Nova Scotia last summer—owner of a campground had one. It was really quiet and at first I thought it was an electric. Owner reported 72 MPG average in different types of driving.
Went to the local Mercedes dealer there with the intent of trying to buy one. They (the diesel)are not to be for sale in the US nor can one import one from Canada. Evidently, what is to be sold in the US will be a gas version. Glad to see Petervs had the patience to work around the whole importation goat rope.
Just a hell of a note since it seemed like a fine little car. With all the hoopla about the environment it’s just a shame we can’t readily buy something like the diesel version to use here. Unlike many econo boxes it was well built with excellent fit and finish.
JEEP:
Don’t think they are perfect but I am partial to the Jeep as a tow. Jeeps are probably an overkill as a Toad since they are not very comfortable or economical. They are a bargin if one likes to do jeep type outdoor stuff when you get there. I like them as they are an easy hookup even with automatic transmission. Have a 91 Wrangler that I have towed around quite a bit. It’s an old one (1991) and getting a little long in the tooth. Bought an 06 diesel Liberty but haven’t towed it very much. Don’t much like the idea of putting a new car behind the coach.
I really like the old one. It earns it’s keep on the backroads, logging trails, and powerline roads as I wander around looking for fly fishing places. I don’t wash it much and it is a true beater! If I see it passing me on the highway someday I will salute it as it goes by. I hate being ready to pull out in the morning and having to screw around hooking up. In most places I can pull the jeep around to the back of the coach and hook up the night before.
Hi Debbie and Bob,
To answer your question, driving the smart car does not make me feel little, vulnerable, or like I am about to die. They did not design a cheap little car like all the original imports were. Rather, they designed a great 2 seat car that turns out to be little. The passenger area is incredibly roomy. Of course there is no back seat at all, and there is a smallish cargo area behind the seats and on top of the engine/transmission area. Big enough for a grocery run, etc.
It is a blast to drive.
It also has the modern safety features like air bags, belts, padding, crumple design, etc. The structure surrounds the passengers in what they call a Trition Safety Cell, rather than being beneath the skin as on most cars.
Check out this video to see what you think. They crash one into a barrier nearly head on at 70 mph.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ju6t-yyoU8s
I have been pondering a name for my contraption as well, so far I am leaning towards Smart Lift, other ideas are welcome.
I might put a sign on the back that reads: "These two vehicles average 34 MPG"
Peter, You have to add your sign above some how. That would make it PRICELESS.Quote:
Originally Posted by Petervs
Gary S.
Peter....
Have you given thought to a sign that says: "OVERLENGTH"?
Do you need to have red flags or flashing lights on the rear just like extra length trucks do? I will guarantee you that you will not make it through Ohio with or without signs, warning flags or flashing lights.
Overlength?
I have no idea what you are talking about. I see trucks pulling trailers all over that are labeled 53 feet long ( trailer only). Besides, I have a rubber tape measure that makes the coach and Smart only 40 feet long!
Actually, if that was to become a problem, all I need to do is hang a very lightweight trailer frame beneath the Smart. There is still a receiver hitch exposed. If the trailer were to stick out one inch past the back then I am legal length again because when pulling a trailer you can go 65 feet. A simple trailer, 6 inch wheels, simple frame, etc. Could carry it in a storage bay and only use it if needed. Could attach it to the Smarf frame with a little chain and it's wheels might never touch the ground. It could be called a car dolly. In Washington those do not need to be licensed.
Besides, I have no desire to go anywhere in Ohio. Well, maybe the Wright Air Force Base museum in Dayton, but I can not think of anything else there I need to visit.
I'm just breaking your chops, but only partly. The state of Ohio is the only one in the nation that I am aware of that strictly enforces the laws relating to large vehicles. I cannot answer why a semi trailer can be 53 and we are limited to 45 unless we tow and then typically the maximum is 65 feet.
I doubt if anywhere else you will get a hard time.
If you ever get to Ohio seriously pushing the limit is doing 59 in the mandated 55 MPH zones for vehicles over 8000 pounds.
Hey Peter,Quote:
Originally Posted by Petervs
Thanks for answering, this car looks really cool! At POGIII, I got to drive Roger and Micki's turbo mini cooper and was pleasantly surprised at the room inside. Of course the power was amazing as well but I didn't want to test the waters too much with Di in the backseat:D
Jon is correct about the Ohio staties....I was born and raised in Ohio and only go back to visit now but when we do, we go the speed limit--they show no mercy and will take a prisoner.
I'll bet the Merchants in OH 10 Appreciate all the good PR the cops are giving their state. I will X that state off my travels.
Harry,
You can look at that two ways. You can feel good that the Buckeye Smokies are making folks obey the law, or you can get really upset because they have a 10 MPH speed differential between heavier vehicles and cars, and that sometimes creates interesting situations.
The truckers hate passing through Ohio.