A drive around the block

[RUNNERBUN]

OK, here in Australia when we say we're going for a drive around the block we are not referring to your normal block in the residential suburbs. What I'm referring to is the big block. "Yes, the big block called Australia" Starting at Mackay on the North-East coast of Queensland we will travell south and then west across the Nullabor Plains to the west coast of West Australia to attend the 2014 National Meet which will be held at Busselton in west Australia.
Following the Meet we will continue in a clock-wise direction thru the Northern Territory and back to our home town of Mackay. I estimate we will cover a distance of approx. 15,000 km (9,300 Miles). This will be the second time to West Australia for my 28 Pheaton. The previous trip was a distance of 13,500 km.
Just a little info on the car, it is an early 28 Pheaton running a stock Model B motor (C on the Head) with a counter balanced crankshaft, B carb, B distributor converted to electronic ignition, 3.54 ratio Crown & Pinion and a Mitchell Sinchro transmission.
Joining me will be my wife, my brother and his wife also driving an early 28 stock Pheaton, and dare I mention another companion who will be driving a 1935 Chevrolet pick-up coming along for the drive. All three cars will be towing camper trailers. We plan to drive on average 200 miles per day with every 4th day off as a rest day.
I estimate that we will be on the road for approx. two months. I will endeavour to post updates as we get around.
We leave Wednesday Aug 27th.
Now that I have told the world what I'm doing I hope and pray that we get all the way around.
Wish us luck!

[holdover]

Wow, now that is a trip. hope you have a great time and safe trip with no vehicle issues. Keep us informed if you can.

[Tom Wesenberg]

Now, that's my idea of a real vacation! I wonder what the rear end ratio is on the 35 Chevy Pickup?
My friend's 49 Chevy pickup sounded pretty wound out at 35 MPH.

[tbirdtbird]

wow!!! what an adventure!! Go for it and best of luck!! You'll have memories for a lifetime and more. Keep a diary

[RUNNERBUN]

Originally Posted by Tom Wesenberg

Now, that's my idea of a real vacation! I wonder what the rear end ratio is on the 35 Chevy Pickup?
My friend's 49 Chevy pickup sounded pretty wound out at 35 MPH.

Tom, not sure what the ratio of the Chev diff is but I have travelled with him quite a bit and we are both very comfortable travelling at the same speed of around 45 mph.

[oldwoodsman]

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That's a big block Runner. Have a great trip and good luck

[Hoogah]

Awesome adventure, Runnerbun, but what's with the short cut? You're missing out on the most important mainland state!!
Seriously, I'm jealous, and will be following your every move on here. Good luck and have fun!

[Mitch//pa]

wow
god speed

[Russ/40]

Fantastic! Hope your able to blog every day. What a great adventure!

[Christoph]

Have fun and tell us about.
Im green...

Please post pics of the cars and the trailers
Christoph

[marc hildebrant]

Smart idea to have the Chev pick-up on the trip. It can carry spare FORD parts !


Marc

[1930artdeco]

I wish I could do that trip. Maybe in a few years when I save up enough money. Good luck and enjoy the scenery.

Mike

[john charlton]

Got my 28 pheaton out on her maiden run today ,36 miles and all seemed well . Can I come too ??? . But thinking about it I might well get left in the dust with the AF 3" bore engine ,multi disc cluich and 28 BHP but at leasr the steering wheel is on the right side !!! . GOOD LUCK and keep us all posted .

John in cool dark evening Suffolk County England.

[RUNNERBUN]

Here are the pics of the three cars and a couple of my camper trailer. Will forward pics of the other camper trailers in due course.
Thank you all for your well wishes.
Runner

[Bertha]

Subscription sent. Always wanted to visit Down Under.

Safe travels..

Bob

[RUNNERBUN]

Originally Posted by Hoogah

Awesome adventure, Runnerbun, but what's with the short cut? You're missing out on the most important mainland state!!
Seriously, I'm jealous, and will be following your every move on here. Good luck and have fun!

Might have to agree to disagree with you on that. Don't you know that the further north you go, the closer to heaven you get.

I have lived in Melbourne for a couple of years, and also have had my "A" down in Victoria twice. Great place to visit, but always glad to get back home.

Runner

[Tom Wesenberg]

Will you have all paved roads?
Who would think a trip around the block might take more than 9 oil changes?

[RUNNERBUN]

Originally Posted by Tom Wesenberg

Will you have all paved roads?
Who would think a trip around the block might take more than 9 oil changes?

Yes Tom all paved roads, only exception will be if we do any side trips for sight seeing reasons but will only be short distances.
The other issue of some concern is the distance between fuel stops. Up to 200 miles. We will have to carry some spare fuel as the distance between some fuel stops is greater than we can cover with a full tank, more so if we encounter strong headwinds which is a distinct possibility.

Runner

[pooch]

Don't camp too close to the chevvy...the rust will creep across......

[JohninKuranda]

Best of luck and enjoy the adventure - I am assuming you have a Sat Phone?

[glenn in camino]

WOW, what a trip. Don't forget your national roster. Just in case.

[mshmodela]

Originally Posted by RUNNERBUN

OK, here in Australia when we say we're going for a drive around the block we are not referring to your normal block in the residential suburbs. What I'm referring to is the big block. "Yes, the big block called Australia" Starting at Mackay on the North-East coast of Queensland we will travell south and then west across the Nullabor Plains to the west coast of West Australia to attend the 2014 National Meet which will be held at Busselton in west Australia.
Following the Meet we will continue in a clock-wise direction thru the Northern Territory and back to our home town of Mackay. I estimate we will cover a distance of approx. 15,000 km (9,300 Miles). This will be the second time to West Australia for my 28 Pheaton. The previous trip was a distance of 13,500 km.
Just a little info on the car, it is an early 28 Pheaton running a stock Model B motor (C on the Head) with a counter balanced crankshaft, B carb, B distributor converted to electronic ignition, 3.54 ratio Crown & Pinion and a Mitchell Sinchro transmission.
Joining me will be my wife, my brother and his wife also driving an early 28 stock Pheaton, and dare I mention another companion who will be driving a 1935 Chevrolet pick-up coming along for the drive. All three cars will be towing camper trailers. We plan to drive on average 200 miles per day with every 4th day off as a rest day.
I estimate that we will be on the road for approx. two months. I will endeavour to post updates as we get around.
We leave Wednesday Aug 27th.
Now that I have told the world what I'm doing I hope and pray that we get all the way around.
Wish us luck!

Awesome! please if you would be so kind to share a few photos. Many thanks

[Purdy Swoft]

Good luck !!!

[Spokes]

You give new meaning to "A drive around the block" please keep us updated !!!

[RUNNERBUN]

The journey has begun. Fine weather and all looks good.

[bikejunk]

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Oh thank god you posted pictures of your travel trailers ...I was thinking of the those great big box truck things Have fun!!

[Brentwood Bob]

wow.
This is your rainy season?
No desert bags for water?
Fun doesn't do it justice, certainly you will get the long distance award at the meet. Your gas bill would put this out of reach for me here in the states.

[Hoogah]

Originally Posted by Brentwood Bob

wow.
This is your rainy season?
No desert bags for water?
Fun doesn't do it justice, certainly you will get the long distance award at the meet. Your gas bill would put this out of reach for me here in the states.

I bet we pay more for gas here than you do, Brentwood Bob!! At best, we are paying around A$1.45/litre and in the outback where much of the driving will be done, it will be more like A$1.85/litre.

This translates to US$5.11 - 6.52/gallon.

What are you paying?

[oz40]

Just came over the Nullabor, 4 weeks ago. Fuel prices as high as $2.09 AUD a litre,
Then near $1.90 AUD around Bourke, Willcania etc.

Enjoy the trip.

[Brentwood Bob]

About $4 a us gallon, more in san francisco. Don't spill any... Enjoy the adventure. Snakes make me nervous.

[Quigley1930]

$3.01/gal. yesterday in Marshall, Va.

Sewall Tyler

[RUNNERBUN]

Hello all. Glad to report we have had two days of perfect travelling. We have now covered a distance of 717 km / 445 miles since leaving home. Day one was 419km/ 260miles and day two 298km/185 miles. Both vehicles are travelling well and the only issue we have had is the Chev fuel gauge being inaccurate, and is running out of fuel when it reads as though it should have a couple of Gals left in the tank.
Only two vehicles travelling at this stage, the third vehicle will join us at the end of the third day.
Regarding fuel costs, our budget for fuel is in the vicinity of $3500/$4000 for the whole trip, and I suspect it will average out at just under $2.00 per litre. Yes, its quite frightening but the memories will be worth it.
Picture show, 1 About to leave home, 2 First Camp out at the Township of Dululu, 3 The Dawson river at the town of Theodore. Flood indicator showing the flood marker (red) of the devastating flood of 2011 which resulted in the evacuation of the whole town. The flood indicator shows a peek flood of 14.7 metres. Picture 4 shows the open highway where every Model a should be.
Tonight we are camped at the township of Wondoan and we will have a short day tomorrow of 210km / 130 miles and stop at the Town of Goondiwindi where we will meet up with my Brother and enjoy our first rest day.
Thank you, one and all for company on this journey.

[Floats]

Well done and enjoy.
Regards from Cape Town

[C26Pinelake]

Please post some pictures. You have a big audience over here that wishes you a safe and happy trip !
Wayne

[RUNNERBUN]

We enjoyed another trouble free run on our third day. We have arrived at Goondiwindi which is our first mile stone. We have now travelled just over 1000km. The third car has now joined the convoy. Today is a rest day for us. We will spend sometime just checking over the cars and add a bit of grease here and there and then do a bit of sightseeing and just relaxing. Tomorrow when we leave Goondiwindi we will reach our second mile stone, the crossing of our first State border into New South Wales. Goondiwindi is situated on the banks of the McIntyre River which is the State border between Queensland & NSW.
attached pictures are: 1, Cars in front of the railworkers cottage where we had our 2nd nights camp at the Historic Village at Wandoan, 2, Model A beside an Australian native Wattle tree, These trees bloom in the winter months and turn from a rather plain looking tree into this brilliant yellow colour . 3, Close up of the Wattle flower. 4, An rare and unusual Blacksmith built boat make from solid steel riveted together sitting on a purpose built trailer which would have been by pulled by either horse or bullock teams in the early pioneering days. 5, The never ending Fuel stops. We don't go past to many fuel stations. 6, Our camp at Goondiwindi showing the three cars.

[hardtimes]

THANKS much for sharing, even though I'm just dying to go camping now...anywhere ! Just love your three setups..cars and trailers !
What kind of supplies do you each carry, i.e.- repair parts , food ?
We are all envious, but you probably know that,eh

[Brentwood Bob]

You look to have lens covers on the headlights to avoid stones. The trailer/tents really are the solution. Your trip will be epic. I will follow your progress. Do you have aprons for the cowl for refueling? At the least you probably don't have to worry about alcohol diluted gas down there. just straight gasoline. Do you run a conventional waterpump, Bob

[RUNNERBUN]

Parts we carry include spare water pump, Carby, Generator, Distributor and and a multitude of consumables such as cotter pins, Gaskets, gasket cement, oil, Grease gun, water and between us a reasonable tool kit.

As far as food goes we carry enough for four days and then replenish on our rest days which is every four days. The trailers are set up with gas cookers and my wife prepares a hot meal each night.

[RUNNERBUN]

Originally Posted by Brentwood Bob

You look to have lens covers on the headlights to avoid stones. The trailer/tents really are the solution. Your trip will be epic. I will follow your progress. Do you have aprons for the cowl for refueling? At the least you probably don't have to worry about alcohol diluted gas down there. just straight gasoline. Do you run a conventional waterpump, Bob

Gas supplies hear we have a choice of alcohol blends or straight unleaded. Of course we run the unleaded. We just take care when refuelling to avoid spillage.
I'm running a B Motor and the original 3 whole water pump.
Runner

[Bertha]

Gott'a remember to ck in every day....subscribed and checked off for instant emails but nadd'a.

See 'ya tomorrow...

Bob

[Ted Duke]

Envious! I'll be watching. God Speed.

[RUNNERBUN]

Hi all, had a great rest day yesterday at Goondiwindi. Did a bit of checking on the vehicles but all going well. Today we set off and crossed the state border into New South Wales. Today we had another wonderful day and covered a distance of 343km / 213 miles and are camped at Coonabarabran. Giving us a to-date total of 1358 km / 843 miles. Todays travelling conditions were excellent with cool day time temp. and clear blue sky and very little wind.
While we were at Goondiwindi we were approached by a gent who asked for permission to take some video to be uploaded to Youtube. The attached link is the result of that video. http://youtu.be/SiomL6IVcas

Spirits are high and we are living the dream.
Runner

[Bertha]

I have to ask...is it good'n'windy in Goondiwindi?

Enjoyed the vid...

Bob

[RUNNERBUN]

Originally Posted by Bertha

I have to ask...is it good'n'windy in Goondiwindi?

Bob

No, it's not at all windy but it's good and %#&@*& COLD

[RUNNERBUN]

Hello everyone, again I am happy to report that all vehicles are performing very well. We have now reached Broken Hill ( home of the big Australian mining Co. BHP) We have now covered a total distance of 2212 km / 1374 miles since leaving home. We have experienced great driving conditions for the past two days. The days are cool to cold and the nights are very cold. Was 2 degrees at night at Coonabarabran, certainly to cold for us that come from the tropics.
Today we will enjoy our second rest day at Broken hill and take some time out to service the vehicles and play tourists for the day. Our trip from Cobar to Broken hill yesterday covered a distance of 456 km / 283 miles which made it a long day but that will be largest distance we will have to cover in one day for the rest of our journey.
The country side between Cobar and Broken Hill is very dry country lightly stocked with sheep which have to compete for the little available feed with the many hundreds of feral goats which seem to be thriving in the dry conditions.
We will reach an other milestone tomorrow when we will cross another state border from New South Wales into South Australia

Runner.

Picture
1 Cattle grazing by the roadside.
2 A stunning crop of Golden Canola
3 Morning tea stop at the little township of NEVERTIRE. (appropriately named)
4 Breakfast on a very cold morning
5 The Australian landscape
6 Kangaroo in the wild. (picture taken through the side curtains)

[stewwolfe]

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Great trip! I am jealous! Keep safe and keep us all up to date. Godspeed.

[Bertha]

Can I join 'ya? EnvyEnvyEnvy

No around the block up here....more like thru the middle.




Bob

[DJ S]

What an amazing trip you guys are on! Hope everything continues to go smoothly!

[Mitch//pa]

wow thanks for keeping us up to speed on things. what an amazing trip so far

what set up are you using for heat in the car?

[RUNNERBUN]

[QUOTE=Mitch//pa;939138]wow thanks for keeping us up to speed on things. what an amazing trip so far

what set up are you using for heat in the car?[/QUOTE]

Only thing to keep us warm is our clothing. I did suggest to the Chev owner that he talks a lot of hot air and that might keep us just a bit warmer.

Runner

[RUNNERBUN]

Originally Posted by Bertha

Can I join 'ya? EnvyEnvyEnvy

No around the block up here....more like thru the middle.




Bob

That's a nice van, would love to tour Australia in that. Certainly would be more comfortable than a canvas camper.

Runner

[29vintage]

Good to see all the vehicles and passengers are going well.

What speed are you travelling at, and how is the economy of the three vehicles with the trailers behind?

[RUNNERBUN]

Originally Posted by 29vintage

Good to see all the vehicles and passengers are going well.

What speed are you travelling at, and how is the economy of the three vehicles with the trailers behind?

We have been doing a consistent 45 miles per hour and the cars seem quite happy at that. Consumption, the yellow ford is giving 20 miles per imperial gallon. (US gallon is a bit smaller) the grey Ford is at about 19 mpg. and the Chev is returning 17 mpg. it is a bit heavier vehicle and the trailer is also heavier.
Mostly travelling in flat countryside.
Runner

[Brentwood Bob]

the critter count must be low with the cooler temperature. you are making great progress. I have heard many times the cars like 42-45 mph and will cruise all day. seems to be what you are experiencing. And you are under load. carry on. Any tuneup problems we would be interested in?
You are running 3x champions? And zenith Carb?
Bob

[Hoogah]

Originally Posted by RUNNERBUN

[/COLOR]


We have been doing a consistent 45 miles per hour and the cars seem quite happy at that. Consumption, the yellow ford is giving 20 miles per imperial gallon. (US gallon is a bit smaller) the grey Ford is at about 19 mpg. and the Chev is returning 17 mpg. it is a bit heavier vehicle and the trailer is also heavier.
Mostly travelling in flat countryside.
Runner

45mph would be a doddle for your car with the Mitchell, Runnerbun. Are you using it always at this cruising speed? Do the other Model A and the Chev have standard drivetrains?

Loving your work!!

[RUNNERBUN]

Hello all, yes we are still going strong. Happy to report Man, Woman and Machines all going well and we remain on schedule. We had a great rest day at Broken Hill. We spent some time servicing the cars and then went for a short 26 km drive to The historic mining town of Silverton. Silverton is now a popular tourist destination having many art Gallaries. It has also been a popular location for movie makers and has been the location for films such as Mad Max 2, A town like Alice, Outback Bound , In Pursuit of Honour, the US movie Badlands 2005 and Ring of Scorpio.
We have now travelled a total of 3127 km / 1943 miles since leaving home and we are amazed just how well the cars are going as we have had no issues at all. The support we are getting along the way is also amazing. No matter where we stop we soon attract an audience with all the usual questions. (where have you come from and where are you going. Where do you get tyres from and where is your support crew.)
We reached another milestone when we crossed the birder into South Australia.
It was great to reach Port Augusta today and see the ocean again after driving through all the dry interior. The view down to Port Augusta from the top of the mountains and seeing the upper reaches of the Spencer Gulf was truly amazing. An added bonus while we were taking in the view we met up with another Model A heading for Busselton for the National meet.
We have now arrived at Ceduna and will spend two nights here. The drive from Port Augusta to Ceduna was very pleasant. The countryside has greened up and it is mostly flat grain growing and sheep country.
Pic 1 Silverton Hotel
2 Artwork at Silverton
3 Rugged up against the cold
4 Start of a new day
5 Crossing the South Australian border
6 The long road head
7 Half way across Australia (at Kimba)
8 Looking down to Port Augusta and the Spencer Gulf.

[RUNNERBUN]

[QUOTE=Brentwood Bob Any tuneup problems we would be interested in?
You are running 3x champions? And zenith Carb?
Bob[/QUOTE]
At this stage we have not experienced any problems whatsoever. I decided to run modern plugs with plug adapters in the head so I could buy plugs at any auto shop if the need arises. Carb is a Zenith B Carb. (I'm running a B engine.)

[RUNNERBUN]

Originally Posted by Hoogah

45mph would be a doddle for your car with the Mitchell, Runnerbun. Are you using it always at this cruising speed? Do the other Model A and the Chev have standard drivetrains?

Loving your work!!

Hoogah, My Mitchell is only a Synchronised Transmission not an overdrive so my ratio is same in top gear as any standard box. Only 1st & second gears have been altered by 15 percent for better spacing between gears. My differential ratio is 3.54 to 1 which is of benefit.
The other two vehicles are running all standard gearbox and diff.

[stewwolfe]

Why are your headlights covered?

[mshmodela]

RUNNERBUN,


Awesome photos... Thanks please keep them coming... What a great drive!

[RUNNERBUN]

Originally Posted by stewwolfe

Why are your headlights covered?

For protection from stones which can often be thrown up by heavy transporters on our sometimes narrow roads. They come off at night of course if the need arises.

Runner

[stewwolfe]

Makes sense, but how do your radiators survive without stone guards?

[Brentwood Bob]

Thanks for the pictures and great narrative. The tall ring and pinion is like an overdrive. Bob

[pooch]

Originally Posted by RUNNERBUN

Hello all, yes we are still going strong. Happy to report Man, Woman and Machines all going well and we remain on schedule. We had a great rest day at Broken Hill. We spent some time servicing the cars and then went for a short 26 km drive to The historic mining town of Silverton. Silverton is now a popular tourist destination having many art Gallaries. It has also been a popular location for movie makers and has been the location for films such as Mad Max 2, A town like Alice, Outback Bound , In Pursuit of Honour, the US movie Badlands 2005 and Ring of Scorpio.
We have now travelled a total of 3127 km / 1943 miles since leaving home and we are amazed just how well the cars are going as we have had no issues at all. The support we are getting along the way is also amazing. No matter where we stop we soon attract an audience with all the usual questions. (where have you come from and where are you going. Where do you get tyres from and where is your support crew.)
We reached another milestone when we crossed the birder into South Australia.
It was great to reach Port Augusta today and see the ocean again after driving through all the dry interior. The view down to Port Augusta from the top of the mountains and seeing the upper reaches of the Spencer Gulf was truly amazing. An added bonus while we were taking in the view we met up with another Model A heading for Busselton for the National meet.
We have now arrived at Ceduna and will spend two nights here. The drive from Port Augusta to Ceduna was very pleasant. The countryside has greened up and it is mostly flat grain growing and sheep country.
Pic 1 Silverton Hotel
2 Artwork at Silverton
3 Rugged up against the cold
4 Start of a new day
5 Crossing the South Australian border
6 The long road head
7 Half way across Australia (at Kimba)
8 Looking down t Port Augusta and the Spencer Gulf.

Were the donkeys still roaming the streets of Silverton ?

The yanks would have loved to have seen a pic of the Model A beside the MAD MAX replica ... a 73 XB ford .

I think it was called The Road Warrior over there.

[RUNNERBUN]

Hello all, We have now arrived at Nullarbor Roadhouse and are still on schedule and all is going very well. We have now run up 3465 km / 2153 miles. Had our rest day at Ceduna yesterday which started up with a beautiful morning listening to the gentle waves rolling in on the foreshore beside the Caravan/trailer park where we were camped.
Unfortunately the peace and tranquillity did not last for long. Within 2 hours of waking the severe winds started. We were buffeted by wind gusts of 40 to 50 knots. Despite the strong winds we managed to do some sight seeing and had quite a nice day.
Ceduna is situated on the sea front and serves as an export port for Wheat, grain, gypsum and salt. it is also famous for it's beautiful oysters which we treated ourselves to and at $9 per dozen for very large oysters represents great value.
The journey to The Nullarbor Roadhouse was very though going as we battled the severe headwinds all the way. The going was slower than we normally travel but despite that we did arrive in good time.
The severe winds look like continuing for another day or so. We decided to book into a cabin for the night otherwise we would not be getting any sleep. (I know, we're a bunch of softies).
Ceduna to Norseman (The Nullarbor Plains) is a distance of just over 1200 km and there is nothing but the occasional Roadhouse with a few cabins and a trailer park out the back. Nullarbor means (No Trees) so it's the No Tree PLain.

Until the next report
Runner


Pic
1 Grain Silos at Ceduna
2 A feast fit for a king
3 Ceduna Jetty
4 Beach at Ceduna
5 Morning tea at Nundroo Roadhouse
6 Look out for Camels, Kangaroos and Wombats

[RUNNERBUN]

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Originally Posted by pooch

Were the donkeys still roaming the streets of Silverton ?

The yanks would have loved to have seen a pic of the Model A beside the MAD MAX replica ... a 73 XB ford .

I think it was called The Road Warrior over there.

Yes, the donkeys are still there. Attached a picture for you to bring back some memories for you.
There is now a Museum set up for the Mad Max display and the XB Ford is now a part of the display and not on public display as in the past.
I was looking forward to getting the picture of the two cars together but it was not to be.

[stewwolfe]

I'm glad the trip is still going well. I'm visiting Australia vicariously through you. Stay safe.

[RUNNERBUN]

Hello all, again I'm very happy to report that we have been travelling well and that all cars are going strong. We have had a couple of minor issues with the cars, but more an inconvenience rather than a problem. The brothers model a had a flat tyre due to a failed tube, he also managed to drop his fuel cap after not screwing it back on when he refuelled. After looking along the side of the road and not finding it, it was located wedged in behind the side mounted spare. He also had a fan belt which was delaminating and needed to be replaced. (we carry a spare)
The Chevrolet is losing transmission oil which is travelling down the torque tube into the differential. He periodically has to drain the excess from the diff. and top up the transmission. Fortunately my "A" has not yet experienced any issues. (but I guess my turn will come)
We have now travelled a total of 4379 km / 2721 miles and have remained on schedule since the start.
My last report from Nullarbor roadhouse was that we were experiencing severe winds and that we had decided to take a cabin. About 2 hours later would you believe that the winds died and we could have camped in the trailers after all.
The next days travel (469 km) to Cocklebiddy we did experience reasonably heavy winds but not as severe as we had the previous leg.
Yesterdays drive to Norseman (445km) was an excellent drive with only light headwinds.
Today is a rest day, or as we call it. an RDO. (Rostered Day Off) We will do a little servicing and some sightseeing and just relaxing.
A unique feature across the Nullarbor is the emergency RFDS (Royal Flying Doctor Service) airstrips. These are about a 1 mile stretch of the highway which is designated as an emergency landing area for the RFDS. These appear at frequent intervals of approx. 50 miles. I don't know if this is done anywhere else in the world. An other point of interest along the Nullarbor is the Bunda Cliffs. These spectacular cliffs at 120 meters in height run for hundreds of miles along the south coast of Australia, we had hoped to do a scenic flight along the coast from the Nullarbor Roadhouse but unfortunately the severe winds grounded the aircraft. The other major point of interest along the way was the 90 mile straight. The longest straight road in Australia.

Until the next report.
Regards from Down Under.

Pictures.
1 The Bunda Cliffs
2 Cars at the Cliff tops
3 The Quail looking south to the Antarctic
4 Cars at the Bunda Cliff tops.
5 Fuel prices. $1.96 ltr regular unleaded. We have paid as high as $1.99
6 Crossing the border into West Australia
7 Emergency airstrip
8 At the start of the 90 mile straight
9 The endless road west.
10 Only flat at the bottom.

[Hoogah]

Originally Posted by RUNNERBUN

A unique feature across the Nullarbor is the emergency RFDS (Royal Flying Doctor Service) airstrips. These are about a 1 mile stretch of the highway which is designated as an emergency landing area for the RFDS. These appear at frequent intervals of approx. 50 miles. I don't know if this is done anywhere else in the world.

It is, or at least WAS done somewhere else, although I suspect not legally! In a previous life (c.1980s) I worked on the Darling Downs QLD as a cotton agronomist. This involved visiting farms to check for insect infestations and to monitor irrigation water use. Much of this was done via motor bike so we could get around paddocks as well as between farms. Some of the aerial spray contractors used the same back roads to land, refuel and top up their spray tanks with the help of a mobile ground crew. The scariest experience I had there was to have one of these planes come in to land on the road that I was riding down. It came over the top of me from behind as I rode down a dirt road on the bike, oblivious to any noise until this plane was just metres above my head and roaring, and touched down not all that far in front of me! I swear I almost fell off in fright. When I finally saw the pilot down the road at his pitstop, he was still falling about laughing!

[Bertha]

It never rains in Calistralia?

Glad it's going so well.....envynenvyenvy.

Bob

[Brentwood Bob]

Thanks for keeping us abreast of your adventures. Bob

[CarlG]

Traveling blind?? I see that your headlights are covered. I suppose to prevent breakage.

Here in Alaska, we are required to travel with headlights on at all times, day or night. If we cover them on the sometimes unpaved roads, they have to be covered with something transparent so that the light will shine thru.

[mshmodela]

Awesome photos Down Under A Folks! Just wonderful!! Thank you for sharing your adventure with us...

[Mitch//pa]

Originally Posted by CarlG

Traveling blind?? I see that your headlights are covered. I suppose to prevent breakage.

Here in Alaska, we are required to travel with headlights on at all times, day or night. If we cover them on the sometimes unpaved roads, they have to be covered with something transparent so that the light will shine thru.

Carl its a big thread
post 59 and 61 explains the headlights...

[RUNNERBUN]

Once again, hello to all. Time to report in again. We have now travelled a total 5576 km / 3456 miles and are now camped at the City of Albany which is only 380 km /240 miles from Busselton which is our destination for the Model A Ford National Meet. Unfortunately I have some good news and some bad news. Firstly the good news, both the the Model A's are performing well and still going strong and trouble free with only normal servicing along the way.
Unfortunately the Chevrolet will be arriving here at Albany on the back of a truck having suffered a bearing failure on number 3 connecting rod. The rod ran dry due to an unusual problem. The oil dipper on the end of the con rod is unlike that of the Model A which has the dipper built integral with the Rod cap. The oil dipper on the Chev is made from thin steel which is clamped in place using the two big end bolts. The dipper cracked and was dislodged. No dipper, no oil, no lubrication for the big end equals bearing failure. He will be staying on here at Albany where he should be able to have it repaired. Fortunately Albany has a strong vintage car following and he will get the required help. He will join up with us again after the meet at Busselton.
My last report was from Norseman where we had a scheduled rest day. On leaving Norseman we headed north and had a quick visit to Coolgardie before continuing on to Kalgoorlie where we did a bus tour through the Super Pit Mine. The Super pit mine is one of the largest gold mines in the world and produces over 850,000 ounces of gold each year. Look closely at the picture of the mine and at the centre top of the picture you will see some vehicles on the roadway. They huge trucks that weigh approximately 500 tons fully loaded which will give you some idea as to the size of this hole in the ground. The mine is now an open cut mine but in the past was all underground mining and the ground is full of mining shafts, so many that if you put them all end to end they would be about 1500 miles in length. The amount of material they shift now is unbelievable. A clue the wealth that this area has created is on show in the centre of the city at the top of the clock tower (see picture) That dome is covered in 24 carat pure gold.
From Kalgoorlie we travelled south again to Esperance which is a beautiful sea side township on the south coast. from Esperance we turned west again and on to Ravensthorpe. West Australia is renowned for it's wildflowers at this time of the year and the small township of Ravensthorpe celebrate the Wild Flower season with a two week festival which we were very fortunate to be there at the right time. On display were over 600 varieties of wild flowers. The variety and colours were absolutely spectacular.
Since the last report the weather has been perfect for driving with clear, dry and cool days. However the nights have certainly been too cold for us coming from the tropics.
The National Meet commences on Sunday 21st and with only 240 miles to go we will have a couple of spare days to play tourists and take in some of the many attractions this area has to offer.
My next report will be from th National Meet at Busselton if all continues going to plan, until then cheers to all.

Pics.
1 Tailings at the Norseman gold mine (Norseman produces 100,000 ounces p/y
2 corragated Iron sculptures at Norseman
3 Mining registry & Courthouse at Coolgardie
4 What happens when you get run over by a 500 ton truck
5 Super pit Mine at Kalgoorlie
6 Clock tower dome covered in 24 carat gold.
7 Beachside at Esperance
8,9,10 Wild flowers of West Australia
11 Bush Camping

[Brentwood Bob]

You guys need a subsidy from the austraulian turist bureau. This is all free advertising. Bob

[Bertha]

Originally Posted by RUNNERBUN

Once again, hello to all. Time to report in again. We have now travelled a total 5576 km / 3456 miles and are now camped at the City of Albany which is only 380 km /240 miles from Busselton which is our destination for the Model A Ford National Meet. Unfortunately I have some good news and some bad news. Firstly the good news, both the the Model A's are performing well and still going strong and trouble free with only normal servicing along the way.
Unfortunately the Chevrolet will be arriving here at Albany on the back of a truck having suffered a bearing failure on number 3 connecting rod. The rod ran dry due to an unusual problem. The oil dipper on the end of the con rod is unlike that of the Model A which has the dipper built integral with the Rod cap. The oil dipper on the Chev is made from thin steel which is clamped in place using the two big end bolts. The dipper cracked and was dislodged. No dipper, no oil, no lubrication for the big end equals bearing failure. He will be staying on here at Albany where he should be able to have it repaired. Fortunately Albany has a strong vintage car following and he will get the required help. He will join up with us again after the meet at Busselton.
My last report was from Norseman where we had a scheduled rest day. On leaving Norseman we headed north and had a quick visit to Coolgardie before continuing on to Kalgoorlie where we did a bus tour through the Super Pit Mine. The Super pit mine is one of the largest gold mines in the world and produces over 850,000 ounces of gold each year. Look closely at the picture of the mine and at the centre top of the picture you will see some vehicles on the roadway. They huge trucks that weigh approximately 500 tons fully loaded which will give you some idea as to the size of this hole in the ground. The mine is now an open cut mine but in the past was all underground mining and the ground is full of mining shafts, so many that if you put them all end to end they would be about 1500 miles in length. The amount of material they shift now is unbelievable. A clue the wealth that this area has created is on show in the centre of the city at the top of the clock tower (see picture) That dome is covered in 24 carat pure gold.
From Kalgoorlie we travelled south again to Esperance which is a beautiful sea side township on the south coast. from Esperance we turned west again and on to Ravensthorpe. West Australia is renowned for it's wildflowers at this time of the year and the small township of Ravensthorpe celebrate the Wild Flower season with a two week festival which we were very fortunate to be there at the right time. On display were over 600 varieties of wild flowers. The variety and colours were absolutely spectacular.
Since the last report the weather has been perfect for driving with clear, dry and cool days. However the nights have certainly been too cold for us coming from the tropics.
The National Meet commences on Sunday 21st and with only 240 miles to go we will have a couple of spare days to play tourists and take in some of the many attractions this area has to offer.
My next report will be from th National Meet at Busselton if all continues going to plan, until then cheers to all.

Pics.
1 Tailings at the Norseman gold mine (Norseman produces 100,000 ounces p/y
2 corragated Iron sculptures at Norseman
3 Mining registry & Courthouse at Coolgardie
4 What happens when you get run over by a 500 ton truck
5 Super pit Mine at Kalgoorlie
6 Clock tower dome covered in 24 carat gold.
7 Beachside at Esperance
8,9,10 Wild flowers of West Australia
11 Bush Camping

Somebody steeled the 24k clock tower!!!!!!

This is one fun trip.

Bob

[RUNNERBUN]

Sorry about the Gold clock tower. Missed the picture. Will attach here.
We had another good day today and are only 140 km from Busselton and the National meet. An update on our friend with the Chevrolet, he is well underway to having his car back on the road again. Had a lot of luck finding the right person to do the required repairs.

[RUNNERBUN]

Picture Gold clock tower

[RUNNERBUN]

Hello to all again. Well, we made it. We have now arrived at Busselton for the National Meet. A 6060 km / 3765 mile journey over a 24 day period, and what an enjoyable journey it has been so far. we now look forward to relaxing and enjoying the Rally for the next week or so which will be a welcome change from setting up camp each day.
I am so pleased and proud of the performance of my Phaeton, other than lubrication and oil changes the only other adjustments necessary have been a Fan belt adjustment and a Water Pump gland nut adj. Oil consumption has been 2 quarts for the 6060 km journey and a couple of cups of water for the radiator.
The brothers model A has also performed well other than some small problems with the starter motor.
Our travelling companion with the Chevrolet who had the big end problem on number three piston should be on the road again sometime later today. He was very fortunate to find an excellent German tradesman who was only to willing to do the necessary repair despite having a 5 week back log of work he worked back after hours to get the car back on the road quickly. He converted the Babbitt rod to a slipper type bearing utilising a bearing from some Toyota.

Before leaving Albany we did some fantastic sight seeing around the area. Albany is a coastal city with a population of some 60,000. and has magnificent coastal views. Albany was used as the departure point for our soldiers during world war 1 due to the protected harbour offer by the King George Sound. During the war a convoy of 54 ships gathered in the harbour carrying 40,000 Australian and New Zealand soldiers and 17,000 horses and departed for the battle fields of Gallipoli and Europe. To many of them never to return. Situated on a high hill overlooking King George Sound is a most impressive Memorial dedicated to those brave men.

We are now camped at a caravan park situated on the water front and next door to rally headquarters. Many of the rally participants will be staying here. It has been great to catch up with friends we see only every two years and make new ones as well. Approximately 15 Model A'rs are here at the park already.
Pictures:
1 Cliff top at Albany
2 War Memorial at Albany
3 War Memorial at Albany
4 Tree top walk. 600 metre boardwalk, 40 metre high in the canopy
5 Camp at Busselton
6 What it's all about. catching up with friends. (Happy Hour)

[Bertha]

Good Cobbers, grog and a safe trip....does it get any better?

Have fun!!

Bob

[Mad Mac]

Anyone know why the date on the ANZAC memorial are 1916-1918, when the first big ANZAC troopship embarkation from Albany was actually in October 1914?

[al's28/33]

GREAT HEAVENS!!! What a trip!! What FUN!! and what an ADVENTURE!!

GOD SPEED!!!! keep on going and keep sharing your story with us!!!!!

FANTASTIC!!!!

[RUNNERBUN]

Originally Posted by Mad Mac

Anyone know why the date on the ANZAC memorial are 1916-1918, when the first big ANZAC troopship embarkation from Albany was actually in October 1914?

Excellent question Mad Mac. The inscription at the monument reads "Erected by their Comrades and the Govt. of Australia and New Zealand in memory of the Australian Light Horse & New Zealand Rifles, The Imperial Camel Corps & The Australian Flying Corps who lost their lives in Egypt, Palestine and Syria 1916 - 1918."

I wonder when the Word Anzac (Australian & New Zealand Army Corps) was first coined

[RUNNERBUN]

Once again, hello to all. It's been really nice to relax and enjoy the start of the Rally. Sunday was check-in time and lots of catching up with friends we have made over the past 12 years of attending Model A Ford National rallies. Sunday night was the traditional Meet and Greet night and lots of socialising. Monday we enjoyed a very scenic run to Nannup. We were escorted around many back roads for a very enjoyable day out covering a distance of 140 miles / 220 km. In the evening we were treated to a wonderful meal followed by some entertainment, Daily raffle draws and lucky door prizes. Invited Guest, Dan Foulk (President of MAFCA) accompanied by wife Shelby gave a very entertaining speech.
Each day we are given an extensive choice of tours or points of interest to visit. Today we have chosen to do an all day bus tour of the very scenic Margaret River area which is world famous for it's wines and are looking forward to some great wine tasting and fun along the way.

Pictures.
Rally Licence Plate
Rally Car Badge
On tour at the front of the Historic Nannup Hotel.

[RUNNERBUN]

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Hello all once again. We are now back on the road again. Sorry for the lack of reports over the past week but the truth is we have been busy enjoying ourselves at the Rally. It has been a busy but fun week with lots of touring and interesting places to visit. While at the rally we covered a distance of over 500 km/310 miles in our Model A as well as over 200 km touring in a Double Decker Bus. We have visited a number of wineries, a Brewery, a chocolate factory, a Cheese factory, a Nougah factory and a nut factory. Needless to say our waist lines are showing the signs of over indulgence and much sampling of the products.
A couple of highlights of the rally include a visit to what I would consider the best Heritage Display you would find in Australia. (Dardanup Heritage Park)
Also a night at the Drive-in Movies where a special screening was put on for the Rally participants. Over 100 Model A's at the Drive-in movie was a sight to behold. The Gangster movie set in 1931 was an appropriate and popular choice.
The rally ended on Friday night with a gala presentation dinner with lots of fine food and drinks.
We departed Busselton on Sunday morning and headed north to New Norcia a distance of 375km/233 miles where are camped for the night. Before leaving New Norcia we will be doing a guided tour of a Benedictine Monastery established in 1847 and is still going today. It is unique in that the whole town including over 5000 acres is owned by the order. Most of the buildings are now heritage listed.
To-date we have now travelled 6841 km/4313 miles and are still not quite half way home.
Included in the pictures are three non A Model pics. These are Iconic Australian cars which have never been restored and are extremely low mileage cars in as new condition. All other pics are of rally participants.
Cheers until the next report.

Pic 1 972 E49 6 pack Charger (Chrysler)
pic 2 1971 Xy Ford Falcon Phase 111
pic 3 1973 XA GT RP083 Ford Falcon
Pic 4 At the Drive-in movies
Pic 5 Model A'S parked at the Heritage Village.

[pooch]

gday Runnerbun, if you are still with the cars at rally , any chance of some more pics of the old ute behind the blue CCPU in pic 4 ?

cheers

[RUNNERBUN]

Hi pooch, sorry we have now left the rally and I don't have any other pics of the car, have taken a picture of a photograph which is in the Rally Souvenier Booklet which is best I can do. The car is owned by Ray and Toni Mahony they were the Rally Directors. You should be able to contact them thru the Model A restorers Club of WA. for further info and pics.

Best regards
Runnerbun

[Wallace]

One time more...THANK YOU for sharing the details of your trip...great fun for you and those of us who were readers. wk

[RUNNERBUN]

Hello all, yes we are still alive and well despite not keeping up to date with my postings and movements. The good news is that all vehicles have been travelling well for the past week or so. We have now travelled 10,010 km / 6220 miles.
Since my last posting from New Norcia we have travelled north stopping overnight at the small village of Carnamah. Unfortunately that is where the problems with the Chevrolet had resurfaced. We spent a second night at Carnamah to attend to the Chev problem and we then moved further north thru Geraldton and on to Northampton for our next overnight stay.
While at Northampton I called all the troops together and expressed my concern about continuing on to the North West. With a possibility of more problems with the Chev and reports being received from other travellers about the abnormally high temperatures being experienced up in the North west, as high as 40 celcius / 104 Fahrenheit it would be bordering on madness to continue in that direction. It was a unanimous decision to change direction and return via the south. My dream of the drive around the block had come to an end. Some consolation was that we had reached the half way point and the overall mileage will be much the same. Only the direction would have changed.
Before turning back we decided that the two Model A's would continue on to Kalbarri by the scenic coastal route and return to Geraldton via the main highway (a distance of 270km) Meanwhile the Chev owner would go directly to Geraldton and source some parts. We would all meet up again at Geraldton.
On our arrival at Geraldton we were greeted by a happy Chev owner who had managed to source the required parts which would arrive the next day by overnight transport from Perth. The next day the parts arrived and we headed south east towards Norseman, a journey of 1100 km and 3 days. We arrived at Norseman after passing thru the huge Wheat Belt area of west Australia. An area of some 155,000 sq km / 60,000 sq miles.
I always new the WA Wheat belt was a huge area but having driven thru it one can really appreciate the magnitude. Driving thru this area was quite pleasant along secondary connecting roads with very little traffic it was easy to make good time.
We arrived at Norseman for a welcome rest day. Some time spent on the cars to make sure they were prepared for the 3 day crossing of the Nullarbor Plains. Crossing the Nullarbor would be an exact reversal of the journey over with overnight stops at Cocklebiddy and Nullarbor Roadhouses, before continuing on to Ceduna where we are now and enjoying a rest day.
In the main travelling conditions have been quite good for the past week but the weather continues to change on a very regular basis from very hot to cold as the weather fronts come across the south west corner of the continent..

Cheers for now, until my next update which hopefully will not take as long as this one has.

Runnerbun
Pic 1 Memorial to the 645 man crew of the HMAS Sydney who perished when the Sydney was attacked by a German Raider HSK Kormoran in 1941. Both vessels were ultimately lost with no survivors from either vessel.
Pic 2 The furtherest point north on our travels near Kalbarri.
Pic 3 The highest price paid for fuel
Pic 4 The three cars parked next to a Nullarbor Road Train
Pic 5 Next Roadhouse about 250 km that way
Pic 6 At the Head of the Great Australian Bight
Pic 7 My Digital Odometer bout to turn over the 10,000 km
Pic 8 Sunset at Ceduna Beach.

[mshmodela]

Good Day and thanks for sharing your wonderful trip...

[marc hildebrant]

Thanks for the information.


By the way, what was the problem with the Chevy ? Also, are you saying that the Model A was more reliable ?

Marc

[Bertha]

Welcome Back!!

Glad to hear all's well despite the turn about.

Travel with our abundant good will.

BC

[RUNNERBUN]

Once again, hello to all. Since my last report 2 days ago we have travelled another 656km / 407 miles making a total of 10662 km / 6625 miles since leaving home and am happy to report that all cars are travelling well. We had an overnight stay at Kimba and have now arrived at Peterborough where we are staying at a very pleasant caravan park which is situated off the main highway and we should enjoy a nice quite night.
Our drive from Ceduna to Kimba was a very pleasant drive with ideal driving conditions, Clear blue sky, cool and very little wind to speak of. A pleasant surprise at Kimba was that we were joined by two more model A's which were also heading home from the Busselton Rally. Before we arrived at Kimba we took a short side trip on unsealed roads to see the second biggest monolith in Australia, second only to Ayres Rock. Yes, it was a big lump of rock but certainly not anywhere near as impressive as Ayres Rock.
A quite night spent chatting with the other Model A'rs and enjoying a little red wine.
We awoke this morning to a very foggy start but the fog cleared soon enough and we had very reasonable conditions for the balance of the trip to Peterborough. We did face a challenge of climbing a very steep and long drive over the mountains north of Port Augusta. This tested the cooling systems of the cars which reached boiling point but quickly returned to normal once we commenced our decent.
While passing thru the small township of Ooraroo we spotted a couple of vehicles on display at the side of the road. Although not Model A's they were very interesting. One being a home made tractor based on an 1916 Overland. The owner told me that granddad wanted a tractor but could not afford to buy one, so he made his own. He apparently had many good years of service from it.

Cheers Until next report.

Pic 1 At the Big Rock
Pic 2 Two more Model A's
Pic 3 Morning at camp Kimba
Pic 4 &5 Home made Tractor based on 1916 Overland
Pic 6 Austin Seven same location as the Tractor
Pic 7 Graham Bros. truck as above.

[RUNNERBUN]

Originally Posted by marc hildebrant

Thanks for the information.


By the way, what was the problem with the Chevy ? Also, are you saying that the Model A was more reliable ?

Marc

The problem was a failed big-end Babbitt on number 3 rod.

Are Fords more reliable than Chevs????????? There was a lot of joking about that before the problem, but all that changed quickly when things got serious. We all know that things can go wrong with any car and the same can easily happen to any one of us, so until I make it home I'm keeping very quite. Mind you a have been keeping a few notes in my little black book and I may use them as ammunition after we get home.

[ctlikon0712]

Wow, I just discovered this thread and really enjoyed reading about all the adventures, problems and stops along the way. I know I speak for everyone when I say "thank you, thank you, thank you" for taking the time and trouble to keep us appraised of your trip. This is good inspiration for me and my car and has intrigued me about visiting down under.
I liked to hear that you are still running a Generator!

[Brentwood Bob]

Glad to hear you picked up several other vehicles in the caravan. I am guessing you have another 2 weeks before you are back in your own home.
Bob

[RUNNERBUN]

Hello all once again. We have now travelled another 1606km / 998miles since my last report from Broken Hill. We have now covered a total distance of 12268km /7623miles on our journey.
Pleased to say that all is still going well, although I did suffer my first real breakdown since the start of our journey. We stopped for fuel and lunch at Wilcania and on take off my starter motor made a wirring sound and did not turn the motor over. Removed the starter to find that the Bendix spring had broken. An easy fix as we had a spare under the seat. We were soon on our way. We had also experienced a failing fan belt a couple of days earlier but again that was not a problem as we were also carrying a spare.
We have been experiencing great driving conditions since Broken Hill with clear blue sky and a tailwind all the way. The tailwind has been great news for our fuel consumption which shows a marked improvement.
We are now at Goondiwindi which is just over the border into the State of Queensland which means we are now in our home State. We are currently enjoying a rest day here.
Today is thee last day together as a group of three. My Brother who is driving the other Model A will be leaving us tomorrow when he will head east to his home town of Toowoomba while the Chev and myself will continue in a northerly direct to our home town of Mackay. We should arrive home in 3/4 days with all going well. As tonight will be our last night the 3 of us will be together we will go out to dinner to celebrate our journey.

It has been an mazing journey and I am so, so proud of the performance of my car. It has gone so well, far more than my greatest expectation. One broken Bendix spring and a failed fan belt other than regular grease and oil changes.

All going well my next report will be from home and I will give a summary of all statistics. Bye till then.

Picture captions:
1 Outback country we have travelled through.
2 The sun sets on another perfect day.
3 The sunset, west of Broken Hill
4 Nice sheltered position for a service
5 An Australian Shingle Back lizard (Harmless)
6 The Shingle back lizard.
7 A Goana (approx. 2ft 6 inches long)
8 Roadside lunch stop
9 Rough camping with fresh cut roses at the table.
10 Kangaroos in the wild.

[Brentwood Bob]

Godspeed. Bob

[mshmodela]

Safe travels on what is the Model A tour of the year!!

[Hoogah]

Flowers on the brekkie table = rough camping?? You're doing it in STYLE, my man!!

[RUNNERBUN]

Hello to everyone once again. Well we have arrived home after eight weeks one day and 13278km / 8250 miles on the road. Since my last report from Goondiwindi we have said googbye to my brother in the other model A. He had only 220km/137miles to go to get to his home town of Toowoomba. We (the Chev and my Model A) had another 1000km/ 621miles and three more days of travel before we got to our home town of Mackay.
Day one was a relatively short day to the small township of Wandoan where we once again camped in the grounds of the local Historical village where we enjoyed a nice quite and comfortable night. Day two was also a reasonably short day to the small village of Dululu (1 Pub and six or seven houses) where we camped in the adjacent rest area. Our night at Dululu would be our last night together so we decided to dine out at the 5 star Restaurant also known as the Dululu Hotel We did enjoy a nice meal as you would normally get in these bush Pubs.
The next morning we awoke at 5.45am and were ready to leave by 6.30 (a record) We had a distance of 420km/ 261 miles to cover to see us home. We made good time and arried safely home by 2.30 pm.
I couldn't be happyier with the performance of my Model A. As mentioned previousely my only issues were a failed fan belt and a broken starter motor Bendix spring. Both were an easy roadside fix as we were carrying spares. Only other issue was a leaking radiator, but that was due to accidental damage.

Now for the Statistics.
Trip duration 57 days
Distance Travelled 13278km / 8250 miles
Fuel consumed 1821 litres / 481.3 US Gal / 400.71 Imp Gals
Average Fuelprice AU$1.60 per litre / AU$6.06 per US Gal
Total fuel cost AU$2919.90
Fuel consumption 20.59 miles per Imp Gal / 17.14 miles per US Gal
Lowest Fuel economy 17.12 miles per Imp Gal / 14.3 miles per USGal
Best fuel economy 25.37 " " " / 21.1 " " "
I trust you have all enjoyed the ride as much as I have enjoyed bringing it to you. I have but one wish, I trust that I have inspired you to get out there and use and enjoy these wonderful vehicles that we own. Use them and maintain them and they will serve you well. They are a robust and well engineered simple car to keep maintained and they will last for many years to come. Many times during the trip on those long distances between towns I wondered if Henry and Edsel Ford ever thought that the cars they built would not only survive for 86 years but be capable of udertaking such a journey. Were they up there looking down at us with a smile on their face, saying that's one of our cars. Were they looking after us? I would like to think so.
Now I have many people to thank, first and formost my good wife, without her enthusiasm and support and love of vintage motoring this trip would never have taken place. Secondly, my travelling companions, my brother and his wife and yes, even the Chevy driver. We shared a very special experience together.
To all you Ford Barners I say thank you for your support and encouagement and well wishes. I felt and enjoyed your company all the way. Also to the many people we met along the way and the friends new and old we met at the Busselton National meet. A big thank you to the drivers of all those heavy transporters and road trains which showed us great patience when we got in their way and slowed them up.

Last of all but certainly not the least. The Ford Barn, for this wonderful forum which allowed me to share this experience.

I thank you all once again.
Pic 1 Our last momments together as a group
Pic 2 Farewell brother Joe and Trish
Pic 3 Isla Gorge
Pic 4 Our last camp out at Dululu
Pic 5 At the front of the Dululu bush pub
pic 6 We have arrived home.
Pic 7 Total mileage.

[160B]

Terry and Cheryl, thank you for the posts, they brought back a lot of memories of our travels with our friends down under. Good on ya mate!!!

[Hoogah]

Thanks go to you, Runnerbun, for sharing what has obviously been an absolutely fantastic experience. I looked for your update every day (and felt strangely empty when there was none! ), shared your tribulations (not that there were many, mainly CH#V-related! ) and enjoyed your triumphs!

Synchro909 embarked on a similar trip and managed to complete the full lap (see "Long Distance Touring in an A" thread) - you possibly met up at Busselton?

We've also shared the highs and lows with OnlyBackRoads on his journey from California to Arkansas, albeit with what was a sad outcome (for now, anyway). But even that event has brought out a great sense of camaraderie within this group, and I am inspired by Sean's resilience!

What I'm trying to say is that your collective stories have left me inspired to attempt something similar in the future, and put the old girl and myself to the test (oh, and the car too! )

WELL DONE THAT MAN!

(insert extended round of applause here)

[ODFever]

Runnerbun - I discovered your thread through a search. I just bought my first A 3 weeks ago. I appreciate the details you outlined with each step of your journey. Thanks for keeping it up to date with each stop. I'm truly impressed by the number of miles you covered, and by the lack of mechanical troubles you experienced!! :-) You are valuable resource to me, and I would like to learn from your epic experience.

What steps did you take in planning and preparing for the trip?

Did you have communication between the 3 vehicles? If so, what did you use?

What did you do each morning to ensure your car was ready for the day's mileage?

What type of engine oil did you bring with you? How often did you change the oil?

What type of gear oil did you run in your transmission? How often did you check the level?

What kind of tires do you have on your A - bias or radials? Did the tires hold up well to all the miles, or are they in rough shape?

What tire pressure did you keep your tires set at?

Did you check the rear differential fluid at any point on your journey?

What spares did you bring? If you have a list, could you please post it here?

What is your trailer made out of - an old pickup truck bed? What kind of hitch do you have on your A? What are the dimensions? How much does it weigh empty? How much did it weigh full? (I can convert from kg to lbs.)

Was your tent a part of the trailer? Could you please take pictures of both and post more information?

What camping supplies did you bring? If you have a list, could you please post it?

Did you cook any meals on the engine while you drove? If so, what did you cook and how did it taste?

Conquering that many km in an A taught you some valuable lessons. Could you please post what you learned from the trip about your car, about travelling long distance, about any bits of wisdom you gained along the way?

If you could run through that whole trip again, what would you do differently?

Thank you! :-)

[RUNNERBUN]

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Originally Posted by ODFever

Runnerbun - I discovered your thread through a search. I just bought my first A 3 weeks ago. I appreciate the details you outlined with each step of your journey. Thanks for keeping it up to date with each stop. I'm truly impressed by the number of miles you covered, and by the lack of mechanical troubles you experienced!! :-) You are valuable resource to me, and I would like to learn from your epic experience.

What steps did you take in planning and preparing for the trip?

Did you have communication between the 3 vehicles? If so, what did you use?

What did you do each morning to ensure your car was ready for the day's mileage?

What type of engine oil did you bring with you? How often did you change the oil?

What type of gear oil did you run in your transmission? How often did you check the level?

What kind of tires do you have on your A - bias or radials? Did the tires hold up well to all the miles, or are they in rough shape?

What tire pressure did you keep your tires set at?

Did you check the rear differential fluid at any point on your journey?

What spares did you bring? If you have a list, could you please post it here?

What is your trailer made out of - an old pickup truck bed? What kind of hitch do you have on your A? What are the dimensions? How much does it weigh empty? How much did it weigh full? (I can convert from kg to lbs.)

Was your tent a part of the trailer? Could you please take pictures of both and post more information?

What camping supplies did you bring? If you have a list, could you please post it?

Did you cook any meals on the engine while you drove? If so, what did you cook and how did it taste?

Conquering that many km in an A taught you some valuable lessons. Could you please post what you learned from the trip about your car, about travelling long distance, about any bits of wisdom you gained along the way?

If you could run through that whole trip again, what would you do differently?

Thank you! :-)

Hello ODFever, you have given me a comprehensive list of questions, I'll endevour to address each as best I can.

1a Planning Our travelling is done on a four day cycle. 3 days of driving of approx 350 km per day give or take the nearest convenient place to stop (we usually stop at a caravan park) but have also done some bush camping. The forth day is a rest day, rest days means routine maintenance ar required, domestic duties such as laundry and grocery supplies for the next four days and generaly relaxing and sight seeing.
1b Preparation This will depend on the history of your particular vehicle. When was it rebuilt? how many miles has it done since it was rebuilt? Our big runs normally happen each two years and I would normally pull the engine if the run is in excess of around 5000km and do a thorough check of Bearings (big-end and mains) Valves, Valve seat, Valve Lifters Rings Transmission & Clutch, Timing Gear. In this particular instance I replaced the very tired transmission with a new Mitchell Syncro Transmission.
Other important things to consider is Tyres (are they going to last the distance)
2 Communication between Cars This is one area I will not compromise, rule is all travelling in the group must carry a cell phone and install a UHF two-way Radio. These are essential to stay connected to each other and maintain harmony in the group and staying connected with other road users (Heavy Transporters) for safety reasons.
3 Daily Checks Coolant Check, Oil Check and visual check of tyres.
4 Engine oil Type and Frequency We often don't have a choice due to the isolated area we are in. and I also subscribe to the theory that any oil today is far better than was used in 1928. I usually select a multigrade detergent oil from one of the major producers. Oil changes are done at approx 3500 km. I also like to fill to a point above the full mark and have not experienced any ill effects from doing so.
5 transmission oil Transmission oil is as is recommended by Mitchell, any 90SAE weight oil with a API GL5 rating. I used one by Valvoline.
6 Tyres I use Excelsior 450 -475 X21 on standard Model A rims. They probably don't give quite the same mileage as the Firestones but on a cost per km basis they seem to work out about the same. I like them because on my car they seem to give the best handling. The only problem I have experienced in the past was a bead pinching problem where the tubes are pinced all around where the tyre meets the rim. This problem was solved by using the full width (6") rim liners instead of the normal standard narrow type. I can't say if the problem was caused by the tubes or the tyres.
7 Tyre pressure Tyre presure was kept at 35 psi
8 Differential I never pulled the plug on the differential to check the oil level once we left home. Just did a regular visual check for oil leaks. I figured if there was no obvious oil leak it's got to be still in there.
9 Spares Major items carried were Water Pump, Alternator, Carb, Distributor, A couple of Connecting rods, numerous small items such as Gaskets for Head, Manifold, Carb, Water Pump, Pan, Water pump Gland Packing, Assort small bolts Nuts & Washers, Bendix Spring, Fan Belt, couple of wheel lug nuts, Tubes, Puncher repair kit, 12 volt compressor, Coolant, Top up Oil, Cable Ties, Insulation Tape, Heat shrink tube, Gasket Cement, Manifold Clamp, 1 valve, Valve Spring Valve Guide and valve spring retainer, Small amount of electrical cable, Asst crimp Terminals, Light bulbs and fuses, and probably a few other small items I havn't remembered. All I got to use was the Bendix Spring and Fan Belt.
10 The Trailer The trailer is similar to your standard garden variety box trailer which I built myself using the lightest material I thought would be suffient to do the job. The axle was made from heavy wall steem pipe to which I added Model A front stub axles and hubs. I used the same wheels as on the car so as not to have to carry another spare wheel. To the top of the trailer I fitted an aluminium tray which became the base of our bed with a 6" foam Matteras. Beneath the tray was a storage area. The tent part is fixed to the tray and is held up by bows similar in function to the Hood Bows on a Pheaton. They fold up and down and extend out to the side of the trailer giving us an enclosed area (Dressing Room) of approx 6'6"" x 8'6" in addition to our bed on the trailer. Weight empty approx 140kg and estimate fully loaded 380-400 kg. For the trailer hitch/towbar on the car I went to the local wrecking yard and found a towbar which I could modify by cutting off the original mounting bracket and custom fit brackets that I could mount to the rear bumper brackets of the Ford.
The canvas work for the tent section was also all made by myself. It has a removable zip-on Awning on the side. In the Tailgate of the trailer I built a small Kitchenette with an LPG/Propane gas cooker with two burners and a sink for dish washing.
11 The Tent Yes, the tent is integral with the trailer, see attached pics.
12 Camping Supplies Aluminium folding Table and two chairs, both the table and chairs are carried on the trailer draw bar. Light weight plates and utensils, LED Lighting, A 40 lt Waeco fridge (12v/240v) which is carried on the rear floor of the car. Food supplies were replenised every four days.
13 Cooking No manifold cooker, all cooking was done on the built-in cooker. Meals were normal home cooked style and yes they were very tasty. (Have to say that just in case my wife reads this post) she is actually a great cook.
14 Lessons I have now done in excess of 63000 km on 9 major trips ( car has done 82855 miles/133,340 km since restoration) all but one of our major trips has been with the camper trailer in tow, From my first trip with the camper I choose to adopt the 3 days driving and 1 day off as a rest day system and I wouldn't do it any other way. There have been times where we do take more than one day off as a rest day for extra sight seeing but certainly do not like driving for mor that 3 days straight. It would take the fun out of it for me.
If travelling with others in a group I prefer to keep the group to no more than 4 vehicles. This encourages better communications within the group. I feel a bigger group will tend to splinter into small groups and maintaining good communication will become more difficult.
There are six things vital to a good trip, Preparation, Preparation, Preperation, Communication, Communication, and communication. Good preparation is obvious. Travelling with others for 8 weeks can and will throw up some challenges. Good communication Before & During the trip is essential. One thing that has always concerned me is that we choose to do these trips with the company of good friends. I like to think we return home as even better friends. If disagreements arise, be prepared to compromise a solution.
Do not underestimate the potential high cost if something goes seriousely wrong with the car as recovery costs can be huge if you far from home. Always carry insurance for towing and tilt tray recovery.
One more thing, always remember to be courteous and considerate to other road users. You may have all day to get to where you are going but others are on the road earning a living. They have things to do, places to be and schedules to keep to, they will appreciate your consideration.

All the views I have expressed above are from my personal point of view. others may think differently, that does not make either of us right or wrong. just different.
I have done my best to address all your questions. All the best if and when you hit the road. Stay safe.
Runnerbun

[pooch]

Good post Runnerbun, it is refreshing to see someone actually take the time and answer the questions asked.

Most just answer what they want to and ignore the rest of the questions.

I am seeing a pattern re USA people vs OZ/NZ people on answering the whole rather than the selected part.

[RUNNERBUN]

Originally Posted by pooch

Good post Runnerbun, it is refreshing to see someone actually take the time and answer the questions asked.

Most just answer what they want to and ignore the rest of the questions.

I am seeing a pattern re USA people vs OZ/NZ people on answering the whole rather than the selected part.

Thanks Pooch, I appreciate the comment. Many on the Forum have extensive knowledge, certainly a lot more than I have but I am happy to contribute where I can.
Runner

[Gerald1961]

Wow, what a wonderful trip! Whish you good luck, no flat tires or other harms and many nice locations to visit! I will follow your blog. Keep us updated and good luck!

[Bertha]

Man...GREAT job on that tent/trailer/pop-up camper, well thought out and first rate execution!!!

Bob

[mshmodela]

Runner,

I think you should contact the American cable network TLC or National Georgraphic Channel and do your trip again. Would make a great TV show!

[cradlescyth]

Australia now that's a place I would feel comfortable and safe in visiting.

Hope to someday. Have a great and safe trip.Thanks for phptos

[ODFever]

Runnerbun - Thank you for taking the time to answer all of my questions. I learned a lot from your words of wisdom. I might have more questions after I digest your extensive reply.

I am in awe of your trailer and tent design and construction. It is absolutely AMAZING!!!!! I admire and appreciate your talents. I would absolutely LOVE to have a setup like that! Heck, I'd even love to see it in person. It's too bad you're half a world away from me. :-(

[Synchro909]

Originally Posted by ODFever

Runnerbun - Thank you for taking the time to answer all of my questions. I learned a lot from your words of wisdom. I might have more questions after I digest your extensive reply.

I am in awe of your trailer and tent design and construction. It is absolutely AMAZING!!!!! I admire and appreciate your talents. I would absolutely LOVE to have a setup like that! Heck, I'd even love to see it in person. It's too bad you're half a world away from me. :-(

Without wanting to diminish what Runnerbun achieved making the trailer, they are available just like that "over the counter" here. The one I towed around Australia at the same time Runner was doing his trip is one.
As for those of you expressing a desire to do such a trip, I say do it while you can. We don't get a second chance at this world.
I'm sure there would be an Aussie or two to accompany you if you so desire.

[Tom Walker]

Runner, many congrats on an epic trip, and I really enjoyed your updates as you went.
Can I ask your advice on trailer lights, and any tips on "how to"?
Are you running 6or 12 volts? (I remember mention of 12v fridge?)

Thanks, Tom.

[RUNNERBUN]

Hello Tom, thank you for your compliments. Yes I did convert my car to 12 volt. I agree with others that there is nothing wrong with 6 volt. 12v is just that much more convenient for running accessories such as GPS, 2 way Radio and in my case a 12v fridge as well.
Wiring trailer lights is a fairly straight forward procedure. You will need to break into your cars wiring harness at the Tail/brake light end and add an extension down to a standard trailer socket, trailer plugs and sockets normally come with wiring instructions for the correct sequence, you will have to do the same from your directional indicators if you have them fitted. Personally I wouldn't drive a car in todays traffic without directional indicators. Just to dangerous without them. We call them Orange Warts.
One more bit of advise is when selecting trailer lights go for the newer LED lights as they give a much stronger light during the day time. Not sure if 6 volt LED trailer lights are available.
All the best
Runner