Pic of the Day

[Weldangrind]

Please feel free to share whatever photos spark your interest here (please keep it clean :wink: ). I spotted this in Langley, BC the other day:

http://i158.photobucket.com/albums/t109/Weldangrind/JohnDeereZuki.jpg (http://s158.photobucket.com/albums/t109/Weldangrind/?action=view&current=JohnDeereZuki.jpg)

[Jim]

Is it supposed to be a picture from that day, or just a new picture each day?

[Weldangrind]

Just a picture each day. Throw one on here! Do several! :D

[Jim]

http://i60.photobucket.com/albums/h32/truckgotstuck/Photo0012.jpg

They did this up for the Truxpo.

[Weldangrind]

My buddy the tire guy works Truxpo every year. I'll get there eventually.

This one's for you Jim. Not exactly Fraser Valley rail, but a neat photo of a photo.

http://i158.photobucket.com/albums/t109/Weldangrind/MissionTrain.jpg (http://s158.photobucket.com/albums/t109/Weldangrind/?action=view&current=MissionTrain.jpg)

[Jim]

I think we need more participants...

Truxpo this year didn't seem as good as previous years, I guess they don't want to spend as much money with the economy how it is...

http://i60.photobucket.com/albums/h32/truckgotstuck/22-06-06_1331.jpg
We were working where they used to park these, and building their new parking lot (the old one has warehouses on it now), and it's up on blocks because someone came in and ripped off the aluminum wheels. It was happening quite a lot, they'd come in and take the wheels off all the trucks.

[FastDoc]

A nice warm summer day 3 years ago. I stopped in Rosyln, WA on the way home from Seattle. Do you guys remeber the TV show Northern Exposure? Cicely, AK was really Rosyln, WA.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v25/maule/DSC00633.jpg

[FastDoc]

Don't know why that pic is so small.....

Here's a winter shot from Steven's Pass west of Leavenworth, WA. Snow and 350HP rear wheel drive sports cars don't mix, but it was a cool pic.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v25/maule/DSC00469.jpg

[Jim]

I got this printed on a tshirt just after the last provincial elections.
http://i60.photobucket.com/albums/h32/truckgotstuck/campbellshirt.jpg

[Jim]

http://brammo.com/store/images/D/BrammoShop_EnertiaPLUS_Product_Black_940x637_3.jpg

Brammo's come out with an update, the Enertia Plus, improved range and top speed.

[Jim]

http://i60.photobucket.com/albums/h32/truckgotstuck/mh1.jpg
Got this on a tshirt, my brother says Mike Holmes likes using screws rather then nails...

[Weldangrind]

http://i158.photobucket.com/albums/t109/Weldangrind/MethLab.jpg (http://s158.photobucket.com/albums/t109/Weldangrind/?action=view&current=MethLab.jpg)

[katoranger]

That meth lab still has his teeth. :wink:

[FastDoc]

Unrelated video of the day. Here's a plane like mine having fun.

STOL refers to Short TakeOff and Landing. A type of high performance airplane. This is Maule's claim to fame in the light airplane/bushplane world.



http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3YvB4wZ4yrw

[oldgringo]

http://r1150rt.smugmug.com/Motorcycles/Motorcycle-Adventure-Touring/South-America-Heading-North/DSCN2541/1099352495_YpMcZ-M-1.jpg

Well, this really off the wall, I took this photo yesterday in a Lima, Peru market. This soothsayer was telling fortunes by using coca leaves. More bizarre, she claims to diagnose diseases by rubbing a live guinea pig over her clients. She kills the guinea pig, then examines the entrails, then tells the person what is wrong with them. Apparently people believe she is able to cure them of their ailments.

[MICRider]

http://i158.photobucket.com/albums/t109/Weldangrind/MethLab.jpg (http://s158.photobucket.com/albums/t109/Weldangrind/?action=view&current=MethLab.jpg)

Well, this one pretty much made my day! Laughed me ar$e off :D

[Jim]

http://www.rdanderson.com/legend/episode/legend3.jpgBeen trying to find episodes of this show.

[SpudRider]

That meth lab still has his teeth. :wink:
Not for long! :lol:

Spud :lol:

[SpudRider]

Well, this really off the wall, I took this photo yesterday in a Lima, Peru market. This soothsayer was telling fortunes by using coca leaves. More bizarre, she claims to diagnose diseases by rubbing a live guinea pig over her clients. She kills the guinea pig, then examines the entrails, then tells the person what is wrong with them. Apparently people believe she is able to cure them of their ailments.
Thanks for posting another great photo. :) P.T. Barnum is reputed to have observed, "there's a sucker born every minute." ;)

Spud :)

[SpudRider]

Sticking with an animal theme, I am going to recycle a link to this video that I posted in another thread. ;)

http://purinaanimalallstars.yahoo.com/?v=8571610&l=100000085

Spud :)

[Weldangrind]

http://www.rdanderson.com/legend/episode/legend3.jpgBeen trying to find episodes of this show.

Getting the red x Jim. Which show?

[Jim]

Ahh ok, the show is called Legend, with Richard Dean Anderson.. I honestly can't remember if it's any good or not, I just remembered the name one day and tried to find it. I wound up finding one really grainy episode on youtube.

My friend made this at white spot (sugar and straw wrapper). Wacka Wacka Wacka

http://i60.photobucket.com/albums/h32/truckgotstuck/IMG00363.jpg

[Weldangrind]

Pac Man. Took me a minute, even with the hint. :lol:

I can't remember the show you're talking about.

[Jim]

Yeah I don't think anyone can :P

Here's the intro, http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6fJ6R8WPqfU

[Weldangrind]

We interrupt this winter to bring you a relaxing moment from summer.


http://i158.photobucket.com/albums/t109/Weldangrind/SummerDog.jpg (http://s158.photobucket.com/albums/t109/Weldangrind/?action=view&current=SummerDog.jpg)

[TurboT]

http://i566.photobucket.com/albums/ss108/GioBikePhoto/tiger.jpg

My favourite animal, shot at the zoo by my talented wife and 'detuned' for faster web loading. You should see the full raw file for color and clarity!

[SpudRider]

The big cats are majestic, and dangerous. 8O That's a great photo. :)

Spud :)

[FastDoc]

I love the big cats. Small ones too for that matter. One of the things I'm looking forward to in Heaven, in addition to no snow, will being able to fellowship with the lion.

[FastDoc]

Global Warming Pic Of The Day:

Record cold and snow.

I miss Kalifornia right now.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v25/maule/4-18.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v25/maule/2-32.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v25/maule/3-25.jpg

[SpudRider]

I love the big cats. Small ones too for that matter. One of the things I'm looking forward to in Heaven, in addition to no snow, will being able to fellowship with the lion.
"The wolf also shall dwell with the lamb, and the leopard shall lie down with the kid; and the calf and the young lion and the fatling together; and a little child shall lead them."

Isaiah 11:6

Amen. :) However, I don't want to mess with the big cats under the present circumstances; just ask Roy of "Siegfried and Roy" fame. 8O

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y01DO58IctM&feature=related

Spud :)

[FastDoc]

That's exactly the verse I quote when I tell people there will be animals in Heaven. Snakes too. The child shall play at the hole of the asp. So I extrapolate that there will be all sorts of animals, maybe even all animals. If that's the case, and I think it is, we get our pets back!

As we speak I expect my cats that have died are purring on Jesus' lap. When I get home I hope He'll say, "Well done my good and faithfufl servent. Now take your cats back, I'm tired of their shedding on me"
:D

[Jim]

Sticking with the religious theme...

http://richardathome.files.wordpress.com/2007/07/epicurus-quote.jpg

[SpudRider]

Sticking with the religious theme...

http://richardathome.files.wordpress.com/2007/07/epicurus-quote.jpg
Those are all good questions, Jim. :) If you have time, I would enjoy it if you would start a new thread dedicated to this theme. I would find it very interesting to participate in such a thread. :)

I believe the short answer to Epicurus is as follows. God is both able, and willing to prevent evil. Evil exists because God created beings, angels and humans, who do not operate by instinct, such as animals, but who possess free moral agency, the ability to choose their actions for themselves. Free moral agency is a tremendous gift of freedom, but freedom always entails responsibility; we must accept accountability for our actions. If any of the angels, or people, choose to do evil, despite God's advice and admonition, it is not the fault of God; rather, it is the fault of the perpetrators. ;)

I would like to pose another question. If God doesn't exist, why do some people hate Him so? Is it rational to hate someone who doesn't even exist? How can anyone blame a nonexistent God for permitting evil to occur? If humans are inherently good, why do basically "good" people commit such terrible acts of cruelty, and unkindness? :?:

Spud :)

[MICRider]

Hey guys, big old world and were all friends here... Everybody is entitled to their own beliefs and that's the way it should be. In an effort to pull the thread back to daily pics, here is a pic of my new Beast shocks. They look great and only took a day to get here!
http://i762.photobucket.com/albums/xx261/MICRider/DSCF1100.jpg
Now, just have to wait for it to warm up a little and I can throw them on... They sure look a lot nicer than the stockers!

Cheers,
Stew :D

[SpudRider]

Your new shock absorbers look great, Stew! If I may ask, how much did they cost? :)

Spud :)

[MICRider]

Your new shock absorbers look great, Stew! If I may ask, how much did they cost? :)

Spud :)

They were cheap, I got them for a $59 bid on the auction. I think the shipping was something like $24. They claim on the GIO site that these shocks fit some name brand quads as well... I think Yamaha's? I'd slap them on but it was -31 Celsius this morning so a little chilly.

I'm hoping they solve the tendency that my quad has to take off sideways when I hit a bump or a rut... I've tried adjusting caster and camber and toe in but it still did it. So, I'm hoping that it is poor suspension vs a bent frame :D. The part that really surprises me though is how fast they came... I got shipping confirmation yesterday afternoon.

Cheers,
Stew

[SpudRider]

That seems like a pretty good price for two shocks, Stew. :) It appears these shocks have spring preload, and compression damping; is that correct?

Spud :)

[MICRider]

That seems like a pretty good price for two shocks, Stew. :) It appears these shocks have spring preload, and compression damping; is that correct?

Spud :)

The ad just says adjustable, looks like you can tighten the knurled nuts against the spring. Other than that I don't really know much about them. I just read lots of good reviews and then bought on the "ooooh, shiny!" factor :D

Cheers,
Stew

[Weldangrind]

Hey guys, big old world and were all friends here... Everybody is entitled to their own beliefs and that's the way it should be. In an effort to pull the thread back to daily pics, here is a pic of my new Beast shocks. They look great and only took a day to get here!
http://i762.photobucket.com/albums/xx261/MICRider/DSCF1100.jpg
Now, just have to wait for it to warm up a little and I can throw them on... They sure look a lot nicer than the stockers!

Cheers,
Stew :D

And your floor looks clean and shiny. :D

[Weldangrind]

Spotted on Highway 3, just West of Manning Park, BC.

http://i158.photobucket.com/albums/t109/Weldangrind/EngineersRoad.jpg (http://s158.photobucket.com/albums/t109/Weldangrind/?action=view&current=EngineersRoad.jpg)

[TurboT]

More big meow's. This time a Snow Leopard, or what my daughter txt'd me shortly after picture was taken. "We saw snowleotardperds" :lol: Good memories.

http://i566.photobucket.com/albums/ss108/GioBikePhoto/snowleopard.jpg

[FastDoc]

Nice kitty.... 8O

[SpudRider]

More big meow's. This time a Snow Leopard, or what my daughter txt'd me shortly after picture was taken. "We saw snowleotardperds" :lol: Good memories.
Snowleotardperds...that's sweet! :lol: :D

Spud :D

[Jim]

Spud, I'm not a philosopher, just a truck driver ;) I would suggest that the people you claim hate God probably are not the same people who do not believe in the existence of God.

Related to W&G's BC Highway picture, here is one I took on our trip to Dawson Creek BC... The famous BC Rail.

http://i60.photobucket.com/albums/h32/truckgotstuck/dawsoncreek029.jpg

Hard to see in the resized picture I guess, but on the left of the bridge it has a BC Rail sign.

[SpudRider]

That's a beautiful photo, Jim. :)

Spud :)

[Jim]

Pictures should be mandatory with replies :P

For reference for those not in BC, BC Rail was a rail company owned by the province of BC. Gordon Campbell promised he wouldn't sell it. He did. On top of that there was a long ongoing sham of a court case about the corruption related to the sale, I believe money laundering, breach of trust, blah blah blah... There was police raids of government offices, etc. They wound up finally having the 2 fall guys plead guilty with a sentence of house arrest, and a 6 million dollar legal bill for the tax payer. Of course the whole thing stinks of corruption, all the way through including the courts. Campbell our 9 or 12 % approval rating of a premiere (who many believe orchestrated it I think) denounced the two who got house arrest as criminals who acted on their own. There is so many lies and cover ups and everything related to it that it's really hard to know what exactly went on (not to mention after all of the years this has been going on, the court case finally just started after many delays, and then the guilty plea came out of nowhere so the truth doesn't come out, since they were offered a deal). Anyways, let's just say I am most definitely not a fan of Gordon Campbell.

And now a vehicle related picture.
http://i60.photobucket.com/albums/h32/truckgotstuck/random/04-10-05_1215.jpg

[2LZ]

Here's one for the hunters... If you get squeemish or offended by dead animals....this isn't for you.
Being a Fish and Game employee, I see TONS of odd things, pretty regularly. I work in a regional office, which is 70% lab and full of scientific folks.
That means we also get all the bear validations among many other things....meaning, every other bear that's taken during the season, (odd numbered tag) has to come in and have a tooth pulled for DNA sampling. Mostly we get guys wth ice chests just bringing in the head but this guy had a different idea.
He drove in 3 hours on mostly freeway in his little beatup Samari. Could you imagine the double takes!? 8O
http://i920.photobucket.com/albums/ad41/2LZ_photos/validationbear.jpg

[Weldangrind]

I was just trying to start a thread with some pretty pictures. So far, this has morphed into a political and religious discussion. :lol: Of course I'm kidding; post whatever you like.

This was taken in July 2010 in a very cool old town, Goldfield, NV.

http://i158.photobucket.com/albums/t109/Weldangrind/Goldfield.jpg (http://s158.photobucket.com/albums/t109/Weldangrind/?action=view&current=Goldfield.jpg)

[FastDoc]

Just look at the beautiful rocks used to make the base of that sign! Agate?

[2LZ]

Sorry WAG. Guess the bear didn't help the 'beauty' intention of the thread that I apparently missed..... :oops: 8O

[TurboT]

Crazy bugger with the bear! I don't want to turn anything into a political, moral or religious discussion, but I still wonder why ANYONE wants to kill a living, majestic animal, for sport. I 'get' the food thing, but I've heard Bear meet is skanky awful tasting stuff, so I doubt it's being consumed.

So I'll continue with animal pictures I like, those of this Earth's awesome creatures alive...also continuing the big cat theme. Mr. Lion today. 8)

http://i566.photobucket.com/albums/ss108/GioBikePhoto/lion.jpg (http://s566.photobucket.com/albums/ss108/GioBikePhoto/?action=view&current=lion.jpg)

[FastDoc]

Here's an awesome action shot of a bobcat.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v25/maule/bobcat.jpg

[TurboT]

Cool pic, Doc. :)

[FastDoc]

I can't take credit. Internet download, but whoever took it did an awesome job.

I love cats.

Later guys. Gonna take the Snow-Rat out for a run. 6 inches of powder, 15 degrees F, heated gloves, snowsuit, and a desire to not be beat by winter.

[Jim]

Bring back pics doc :)

Following along with the theme of signs of W&G, this was at the Frank Slide.

http://i60.photobucket.com/albums/h32/truckgotstuck/biketrip07/Pictureset2018.jpg

[Jim]

And animals...
http://i60.photobucket.com/albums/h32/truckgotstuck/biketrip07/Picture020.jpg

[FastDoc]

No pics. at 10 degrees the camera did not function.

I decided to take the ATV. I rode The Dirt Rat a little but decided it was too dangerous. An hour or so on the ATV was just what the doctor ordered though.

[MICRider]

No pics. at 10 degrees the camera did not function.

I decided to take the ATV. I rode The Dirt Rat a little but decided it was too dangerous. An hour or so on the ATV was just what the doctor ordered though.

Good call, those wheels can kick out on you in the blink of an eye... Little more stability with 4 wheels :D

Cheers,
Stew

[FastDoc]

I don't want to say anything in case Spud is reading this but the ATV was a blast. Even my small 250 2WD just tore it up, safely. I agree with Brother Spud bikes are better (for me, at any rate) but the ATV does have it's place in my stable. 8)

[2LZ]

I know that my particular job, unfortunately, may have to occassionally deal with the grim realities of nature mixing with man, and the thinning of a species for their own protection, but there are also some beautiful sides of it.
When I worked in Special Permits Unit, one of the many statewide programs I was involved with was Falconry.
The Falconers are an odd bunch yet extremely dedicated, as it's a fully-encapsulating hobby and more of a way of life. These folks 'live' their birds and believe me, are heavily watched and regulated to keep the birds safe and healthy.
I've received many, many photos from clients I service and it really helps make the days worth it.
Here's one.........

http://i920.photobucket.com/albums/ad41/2LZ_photos/Falconer3.jpg

[Weldangrind]

Sorry WAG. Guess the bear didn't help the 'beauty' intention of the thread that I apparently missed..... :oops: 8O

That was intended as a dig at some of our fine members who made political / religious comments. :lol: Interestingly, you and I posted in the same moment.

Really folks, post whatever pics you like (keeping it family friendly). :D

[Weldangrind]

Bring back pics doc :)

Following along with the theme of signs of W&G, this was at the Frank Slide.

http://i60.photobucket.com/albums/h32/truckgotstuck/biketrip07/Pictureset2018.jpg

Got a close-up of that Jim? If not, I'll try to remember to take one on my next trip through.

[Weldangrind]

http://i158.photobucket.com/albums/t109/Weldangrind/Hedley.jpg (http://s158.photobucket.com/albums/t109/Weldangrind/?action=view&current=Hedley.jpg)

[Jim]

Well the picture is resized as it is uploaded to photobucket, but this one may be better.

http://i60.photobucket.com/albums/h32/truckgotstuck/Pictureset2021.jpg

And here's a picture my mom took of the Mascot Mine at Hedley, doesn't show you how much it really is hanging off the side of the mountain though.

http://i60.photobucket.com/albums/h32/truckgotstuck/Picture080-1.jpg

http://i60.photobucket.com/albums/h32/truckgotstuck/Picture073.jpg

[SpudRider]

Shoshone Falls is located in the Snake River Canyon, near Twin Falls, Idaho. I took the following photograph in July 2009, when the Snake River was running very high. :)

http://i442.photobucket.com/albums/qq146/spudrider/MiscellaneousPhotos/TalleyCabin060.jpg

Shoshone Falls is called by some the “Niagara of the West.”

Spud :)

[Weldangrind]

That really does look like the Horseshoe Falls section of Niagara, which is the Canadian side.

I drove through Twin Falls last summer, and it never occurred to me to seek out the falls. Bummer.

[Weldangrind]

This was taken in Tofino, BC in the Spring of 2009. That beach dog just patiently waited for his master to come back in from the surf.

http://i158.photobucket.com/albums/t109/Weldangrind/TofinoSunset.jpg (http://s158.photobucket.com/albums/t109/Weldangrind/?action=view&current=TofinoSunset.jpg)

[SpudRider]

This was taken in Tofino, BC in the Spring of 2009. That beach dog just patiently waited for his master to come back in from the surf.
That's a beautiful photograph; it looks professional! :)

That really does look like the Horseshoe Falls section of Niagara, which is the Canadian side.

I drove through Twin Falls last summer, and it never occurred to me to seek out the falls. Bummer.
Here's a closer view of Shoshone Falls.

http://i442.photobucket.com/albums/qq146/spudrider/MiscellaneousPhotos/TalleyCabin058.jpg

Here's a view of the Snake River, just downstream from the falls. :)

http://i442.photobucket.com/albums/qq146/spudrider/MiscellaneousPhotos/TalleyCabin055.jpg

Spud :)

[FastDoc]

I was there 2 summers ago. Awesome area. Did you hike up to Evil Kineval's launch site, Spud?

[Jim]

Cool old Peterbilt,
http://i60.photobucket.com/albums/h32/truckgotstuck/mytruck1.jpg

[FastDoc]

Just got back from ATV ride. Went to visit a friend about 5 trail miles away. :D

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v25/maule/2-33.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v25/maule/3-26.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v25/maule/4-19.jpg

[waynev]

Send some of that white stuff my way would ya !!

[FastDoc]

You can have every molecule, Brother Wayne. :cry:

[waynev]

You can have every molecule, Brother Wayne. :cry:

You can't tell me it's not fun riding in the snow doc.

[FastDoc]

It was fun, but not enough to make up for the inconviences it poses.

The powerslides and drifting are cool though.

[oldgringo]

http://r1150rt.smugmug.com/Motorcycles/Motorcycle-Adventure-Touring/South-America-Heading-North/DSC6096/807401776_MjHQM-L.jpg

This is Gustavo's 1939 Norton, restored for the movie, "The Motorcycle Diaries" I rode this motorcycle, a day that I'll never forget.

http://r1150rt.smugmug.com/Motorcycles/Motorcycle-Adventure-Touring/South-America-Heading-North/DSC6086/807401766_uBk3D-L.jpg

Gustavo's shop In Buenos Aires

[SpudRider]

Send some of that white stuff my way would ya !!
If you pay the shipping charges, I will send you as much as you want, Wayne! :lol:

Here is a rare photograph, of my stock, Zongshen, Sierra 200GY-2 motorcycle, posed in front of Bear Lake, which straddles the Idaho/Utah border. :)

http://i442.photobucket.com/albums/qq146/spudrider/MiscellaneousPhotos/357.jpg

Bear Lake was a favorite place for Rocky Mountain fur trappers to rendezvous. With a maximum depth of 208 feet, Bear Lake is noted for its turquoise-blue color, and several species of fish unique to its waters. :)

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bear_Lake_%28Idaho%E2%80%93Utah%29

Here are a few more photos of the northern part of Bear Lake, which resides in Idaho. :)

http://i442.photobucket.com/albums/qq146/spudrider/MiscellaneousPhotos/321.jpg

http://i442.photobucket.com/albums/qq146/spudrider/MiscellaneousPhotos/322.jpg

http://i442.photobucket.com/albums/qq146/spudrider/MiscellaneousPhotos/323.jpg

http://i442.photobucket.com/albums/qq146/spudrider/MiscellaneousPhotos/324.jpg

http://i442.photobucket.com/albums/qq146/spudrider/MiscellaneousPhotos/325.jpg

http://i442.photobucket.com/albums/qq146/spudrider/MiscellaneousPhotos/326.jpg

Spud :)

[SpudRider]

The following photographs complete the panorama, showing the southern portion of Bear Lake, which resides in Utah. :)

http://i442.photobucket.com/albums/qq146/spudrider/MiscellaneousPhotos/327.jpg

http://i442.photobucket.com/albums/qq146/spudrider/MiscellaneousPhotos/328.jpg

http://i442.photobucket.com/albums/qq146/spudrider/MiscellaneousPhotos/329.jpg

http://i442.photobucket.com/albums/qq146/spudrider/MiscellaneousPhotos/330.jpg

http://i442.photobucket.com/albums/qq146/spudrider/MiscellaneousPhotos/331.jpg

http://i442.photobucket.com/albums/qq146/spudrider/MiscellaneousPhotos/332.jpg

Spud :)

[Weldangrind]

While several of our American friends were watching football on Thanksgiving, Son of Weldangrind was playing his last game of the season. The winner of that game went on to play in the Provincial Finals at Empire Stadium in Vancouver, which is the temporary home of the BC Lions. Sadly, our WJ Mouat Hawks lost (44 to 25) to the Mt. Douglas Rams from Victoria.

Here was how we prepared for the game:

http://i158.photobucket.com/albums/t109/Weldangrind/HawksLastGame2010.jpg (http://s158.photobucket.com/albums/t109/Weldangrind/?action=view&current=HawksLastGame2010.jpg)

You can just barely see Son of Weldangrind's #75 jersey, in about the middle of the photo. Sorry about the crummy BB pic.

[FastDoc]

That boy is Hard Core. You Canadians are tough!



BTW stay tuned to this thread. I'm going shooting with my friends later. Since it's Artic out there I was planning on bringing some antique Russian and Finnish WWI/WWII battle rifles. Plus I have a mortar. I like mortars. :P

I will try to take some pics and videos for you all.

[katoranger]

Yesterday I enjoy cruising on my Cub wearing a tshirt. No snow, just mud.

[FastDoc]

I had a great day. Rode The Dirt Rat, ATV'ed a bit, and went shooting with my friends on my buddy's property!

I hope the video of the mortar works OK. It shoots ice filled soda cans up to about 500 yards. It uses up to 400 grains black powder, and produces a terrific concussion and muzzle blast. Its a 4th of July favorite in my neighborhood!

Click on the picture and the video should play.


http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v25/maule/th_MOV06432.jpg (http://smg.photobucket.com/albums/v25/maule/?action=view&current=MOV06432.mp4)

Here's doc with a WWII Mauser. We were ringing the 200 yard gong with this bad boy at 200 yards. Standing!

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v25/maule/DSC06444-1.jpg

Here's Jerrys little QLink 90cc ATV. We use this to ride out to check and change the targets. So a CHINABIKE!

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v25/maule/DSC06443.jpg

Pardon the droplet on the lens....

The Dirt Rat out on my property. It does OK in the powder but it was way too clippery to ride it on the neighborhood streets.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v25/maule/DSC06428-1.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v25/maule/DSC06426.jpg

Warming up...

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v25/maule/DSC06429-1.jpg

My friend Doug. My nurse's husband. He brought out his rand new custom Springfield 1911A1.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v25/maule/DSC06437.jpg

My buddy Ron.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v25/maule/DSC06440.jpg

Jerry and his son Randy.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v25/maule/DSC06442.jpg

Great people, great time. God Bless America!

[cheesy]

Wow, I thought 3 inches of heavy wet stuff was rough when I was in High School


All from the 2010 Lake Pepin 3 Speed Tour, last May.
Sunrise on the Mississippi. On the Wisconsin side across from Red Wing, MN.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v493/bikamper/P5200274.jpg
My youngest pedaling her British 3 speed during the Lake Pepin 3 Speed Tour.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v493/bikamper/P5190268.jpg
More pics of the 3 Speed Tour,
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v493/bikamper/P5180255.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v493/bikamper/P5190265.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v493/bikamper/P5180254.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v493/bikamper/P5180250.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v493/bikamper/P5180244.jpg

And, lastly, the guy who ate all the cheese curds
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v493/bikamper/P5180235.jpg

[MICRider]

Fantastic pics! I gotta say though, that mortar is un freaking believable! Does it need to be repaired after each shot? (I don't know anything about mortars...)

Cheers,
Stew

[FastDoc]

Nope. It's been fired hundreds of times. It's perfect. It just flopped down after that shot because I did not have the elevation handle cranked down hard enough. Cleaning it is a PIA though.

[FastDoc]

Nice pics Cheesy. I love the period clothing. Thers something to be said for the simplicity of a English 3 speed bicycle. I had a 3 Speed Raleigh when I was a kid. Lovely bike.

[cheesy]

Thanks, Doc. 3 speeds are a passion with me. Surprised I was able to talk my kid into it.

I had my son in law watch the mortar vid. He called his brother in law and went to dig out the ten foot long 'tato gun they made in high school. That thing would fire a hockey puck 200 yds, easy. They use propane and a lantern sparker to fire it in the current version but used Ronson lighter fluid and a match in the first attempt.


Ahh, memories of fire extinguishers and bandages.

[SpudRider]

I rode my Zong to Grand Teton, and Yellowstone National Parks this year at the end of September. Jackson Lake forms the headwaters of the Snake River, which is the lifeblood of southern Idaho. Here's a photograph I took at Jackson Lake, with the Grand Teton Mountains rising on the horizon. :)

http://i442.photobucket.com/albums/qq146/spudrider/MiscellaneousPhotos/JacksonTrip2010339.jpg

A little farther south I took a photograph of my Zong posed in front on the lake, with Mount Moran rising in the west. :)

http://i442.photobucket.com/albums/qq146/spudrider/MiscellaneousPhotos/JacksonTrip2010331.jpg

Spud :)

[Jim]

That bike looks good in the snow Doc :) I agree though, I'd stay off the roads with them, I only rode mine out in the field.

Cheesy, cool pictures... I have a Triumph 3 speed I found at a swap meet...
http://i60.photobucket.com/albums/h32/truckgotstuck/JimsBikePics014.jpg

The tire pump on it doesn't work, everything inside it is rusty.

Of course the lights on mine don't go with the bike, but they're there so as not to get run over.

[cheesy]

That bike looks good in the snow Doc :) I agree though, I'd stay off the roads with them, I only rode mine out in the field.

Cheesy, cool pictures... I have a Triumph 3 speed I found at a swap meet...
http://i60.photobucket.com/albums/h32/truckgotstuck/JimsBikePics014.jpg

The tire pump on it doesn't work, everything inside it is rusty.

Of course the lights on mine don't go with the bike, but they're there so as not to get run over.

Sweet looking bike, Jim. If the pump isn't dented, it can be made to work. Lights are a good thing, being seen is even better. I know, I got clobbered in broad daylight. The lights on our bikes are period correct but updated to Cree Q5 LED bulbs. Very bright.

[FastDoc]

Is that the same Triumph company that makes motorcycles? Cool!

[Jim]

As far as I know doc, I had to buy this cause I can't afford a Bonneville ;)

I don't think they actually made them though, just put their names on it, I'm not too sure though. Cheesy probably knows more about it...
http://i60.photobucket.com/albums/h32/truckgotstuck/JimsBikePics012.jpg

[FastDoc]

Now I want an English 3 Speed bike! Enablers I tell you!

Here's a link to the guy who built my mortar. I don't see it on the page anymore but I bet he's still make one if someone asked. It was very inexpensive.

http://blackpowder-cannons.com/

[cheesy]

Is that the same Triumph company that makes motorcycles? Cool!
Originally, yes. They actually made bikes before motorcycles and cars. The bicycle division was sold to Raleigh and Triumph concentrated on cars and motorcycles.

[BillR]

Looks like you all are having great times.
Doc...those laughs remind me of so much... 8O "Well, we didn't get blowed up!" :lol:

Cheesy,
Those are some great looking 3-speeds. I really like that watch holder. Neat idea.
Bill R

[SpudRider]

So far I have ridden my Zong in Idaho, Utah, Wyoming, and Montana. :) Here's a photograph of the Idaho State Capitol Building in Boise.

http://i442.photobucket.com/albums/qq146/spudrider/MiscellaneousPhotos/StLouisCrankcaseCover691.jpg

Here's a photo of the Wyoming State Capitol Building in Cheyenne.

http://i442.photobucket.com/albums/qq146/spudrider/MiscellaneousPhotos/StLouisCrankcaseCover008.jpg

Here's a photograph of the Utah State Capitol Building in Salt Lake City.

http://i442.photobucket.com/albums/qq146/spudrider/SLC%20trip%20September%202010/SLCTrip2010Part2148.jpg

I've visited Helena, Montana, but I don't have a photograph of the Montana State Capitol Building. ;)

Spud :)

[Jim]

http://i60.photobucket.com/albums/h32/truckgotstuck/HemlockFeb152010015.jpg

(thats not me, I'm holding the camera)

[Weldangrind]

http://i158.photobucket.com/albums/t109/Weldangrind/FooMart.jpg (http://s158.photobucket.com/albums/t109/Weldangrind/?action=view&current=FooMart.jpg)

[Jim]

http://i60.photobucket.com/albums/h32/truckgotstuck/HPIM0310.jpg

[SpudRider]

Is "Foo Mar T" another name for Santa? :?:

Spud :)

[Jim]

The last two photos are from the town of Rouleau Saskatchewan. It is better known as the town of Dog River on the Canadian tv show Corner Gas ;)

[Weldangrind]

My favourite comedy series ever, and the source of one of the quotes in my sig.

[SpudRider]

The last two photos are from the town of Rouleau Saskatchewan. It is better known as the town of Dog River on the Canadian tv show Corner Gas ;)
My favourite comedy series ever, and the source of one of the quotes in my sig.
Thank you, gentlemen, for adding to my cultural literacy. :) Living in the United States, and not watching much television, I am completely unfamiliar with this TV show. ;)

Spud :)

[Jim]

It isn't being made anymore, I think they made 6 or 7 seasons, and it is now airing on the comedy network I believe, so it should be available... It really is a good show.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Veu-Cm7aHMw

The police are the best part I think... Overall though a really good show.

[2LZ]

I know it's a repeat but still one of my favorites.
Mrs. 2LZ and her Hensim 150DB.
Just a great day out north of Truckee....about 6000 feet. Rode fire roads up and down mountain passes all day long....deli sandwiches, a few frosty brews and bottled waters. Took a few breaks just to 'take it all in'.
Very vertical and slow going here.
Perfect day out. :D
http://i920.photobucket.com/albums/ad41/2LZ_photos/Bikes/CIMG3921.jpg

[SpudRider]

I know it's a repeat but still one of my favorites.
Mrs. 2LZ and her Hensim 150DB...
We always enjoy seeing great photos, even if they are occasionally recycled, 2LZ. ;) Thank you for posting this photo once again. :)

ATK Thiokol, located west of Corrine, Utah, manufactures the RSRM (Reusable Solid Rocket Motor) for the N.A.S.A. space shuttle. Here’s a rare photo of my stock, Zongshen 200GY-2, posed in front of the RSRM, and other solid propellant rockets manufactured by ATK Thiokol. :)

http://i442.photobucket.com/albums/qq146/spudrider/MiscellaneousPhotos/GoldenSpike083.jpg

With a length of 149 feet, and a diameter slightly larger than 12 feet, the RSRM is the largest man-rated, solid rocket motor ever flown.

http://i442.photobucket.com/albums/qq146/spudrider/MiscellaneousPhotos/GoldenSpike102.jpg

Here are some other views of the RSRM, taken in October, 2008. :)

http://i442.photobucket.com/albums/qq146/spudrider/MiscellaneousPhotos/GoldenSpike099.jpg

http://i442.photobucket.com/albums/qq146/spudrider/MiscellaneousPhotos/Andy1654.jpg

http://i442.photobucket.com/albums/qq146/spudrider/MiscellaneousPhotos/GoldenSpike119.jpg

http://i442.photobucket.com/albums/qq146/spudrider/MiscellaneousPhotos/Andy1657.jpg

Spud :)

[Weldangrind]

Thanks for those photos Spud. I always wondered where the spent boosters ended up; in the movies, it looks like they separate in space, and I thought they were single-use items. I'm glad to know that they're recovered and rebuilt.

I'm amazed that they fall 24 miles! 8O

[Jim]

I figured they were just dropped over the ocean and left to sink... Good to see they reuse them, cool photos, thanks. :)

[Weldangrind]

This is the Gastown Steam Clock, located in Vancouver, BC.

http://handley.org.uk/images/vancouver/lores/P1030681.jpg

Some info: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Steam_clock

A (poor) video I took last night on my BB at 6:00 PM:

http://i158.photobucket.com/albums/t109/Weldangrind/th_GastownSteamClock.jpg (http://s158.photobucket.com/albums/t109/Weldangrind/?action=view&current=GastownSteamClock.mp4)

[SpudRider]

Thanks for posting the photo and video, W&G. That is a very cool steam clock! :D

Spud :)

[Jim]

That reminds me of Storyeum that was there, I got to go once before it closed, it was kind of neat... Seems like a colossal waste of money now.

[MICRider]

This is the Gastown Steam Clock, located in Vancouver, BC.

http://handley.org.uk/images/vancouver/lores/P1030681.jpg

Some info: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Steam_clock

A (poor) video I took last night on my BB at 6:00 PM:

http://i158.photobucket.com/albums/t109/Weldangrind/th_GastownSteamClock.jpg (http://s158.photobucket.com/albums/t109/Weldangrind/?action=view&current=GastownSteamClock.mp4)

That has got to be the coolest clock ever! +10 for sheer awesomeness! :D

[MICRider]

Love the pictures of the SRB's Spud. I never realized they were made in Utah. Does that one sign say "Please Do Not Climb Into The Nozzle"? There's a warning you don't see every day! Everybody's posting awesome pictures, cool thread! :D

Cheers,
Stew

[Weldangrind]

That has got to be the coolest clock ever! +10 for sheer awesomeness! :D

Thanks Stew. :D I happened to walk towards the clock just before 6:00, and Mrs. Weldangrind explained what it was about to do. I just managed to catch it on video.

Gastown is the coolest place to visit. 8)

[Weldangrind]

Son of Weldangrind and I playing in the sand in Florence, OR. I think that was in 2008.

http://i158.photobucket.com/albums/t109/Weldangrind/OregonDunes.jpg (http://s158.photobucket.com/albums/t109/Weldangrind/?action=view&current=OregonDunes.jpg)

[FastDoc]

Wow that looks like fun!

[SpudRider]

Love the pictures of the SRB's Spud. I never realized they were made in Utah. Does that one sign say "Please Do Not Climb Into The Nozzle"? There's a warning you don't see every day! Everybody's posting awesome pictures, cool thread! :D

Cheers,
Stew
Thank you, Stew. :) Yes, the sign reads, "Please Do Not Climb Into The Nozzle." :lol:

Spud :)

[Jim]

That does look like fun W&G.

Spud, they have to take the fun out of everything don't they :P

[SpudRider]

...Spud, they have to take the fun out of everything don't they :P
:lol:

Spud :)

[SpudRider]

Carefully examining some old photos, I discovered rare, photographic evidence of the existence of Bigfoot! 8O

http://i442.photobucket.com/albums/qq146/spudrider/2005%20Honda%20XR650L/NewBRPFuelTank014.jpg

I present this evidence to the world, exclusively on China Riders! Please note both the male, and the female Bigfoot scurrying up the hillside above my Honda XR650L! :o

Spud ;)

[FastDoc]

Good observation. Still I don't think they are any bigger than the BRP though. And certainly not faster if you had to make a run for it. 8O

[SpudRider]

Good observation. Still I don't think they are any bigger than the BRP though. And certainly not faster if you had to make a run for it. 8O
You are correct, oh wise physician. ;) Fortunately, these large creatures appeared to prefer to run, rather than to fight! 8O

Spud ;)

[TurboT]

hahahaha.. :) Awesome.

... on another note, I walked by that steam clock just last week. :) ..used to work just up the road from it too.

[Weldangrind]

I love the wine bottle holders.

http://i158.photobucket.com/albums/t109/Weldangrind/coffeetable.jpg (http://s158.photobucket.com/albums/t109/Weldangrind/?action=view&current=coffeetable.jpg)

[FastDoc]

Wow I like that! Small block Chevy? :P

[Weldangrind]

Hard to tell. I think that I see a fuel pump boss on the passenger side, and I don't see a distributor mount, so it's probably at the back.

Mrs. Weldangrind and I have different ideas about home decoration, or I would so build one. :lol:

[SpudRider]

That's a very nice coffee table; however, I would mount some wheels on it. ;) Otherwise, it might mar the hardwood floor when you moved it. 8O Thanks for pointing out the wine bottles in the cylinders! :lol:

Spud :)

[TurboT]

That is a nice polish job for sure. Cool table! Would be great for a man room!

I don't think that's a stock small block chevy, if it is a chevy. SB Chev's usually have frost plugs on the front, and the back, in front of the cylinders. (They are a bastard to get out sometimes) You'll notice this one just has water pump housing holes.

I'm sending to the King for an ID. :)

-TT

[Barnone]

It's a Buick 215 Aluminum V8 Engine Block later used by Rover.
http://www.britishv8.org/Articles/GM-215-Engine-Identification.htm

[Weldangrind]

I didn't even think of the 215! Thanks for the ID, Barnone.

Those were perfect for swapping into the Chev Vega in the seventies, because they had twice the displacement and power, yet less weight than the boat anchor four.

[Weldangrind]

Can anybody ID this? I think it might be an old valve spring lifter for flatheads, because the device ratchets open as you squeeze the handles. I found it in my Great Grandfather's toolbox, and nobody else in my family has a clue.

BTW, it might have nothing to do with cars or engines.

http://i158.photobucket.com/albums/t109/Weldangrind/MysteryTool.jpg (http://s158.photobucket.com/albums/t109/Weldangrind/?action=view&current=MysteryTool.jpg)

[FastDoc]

Its a Chinese made hemmorhoid extractor.

[Barnone]

W&G,
I think that is a tool for removing the valves on the flat head Fords. If I remember right you could compress the spring and remove the retainer. We had one kinda like that when I was a kid.

[TurboT]

I could've used that tool a few times about 5 years and beyond ago. :)
Where were you then?!

I disliked disassembly on rusted old flatheads. :x

[Weldangrind]

So you're confirming the tool application T? I was only guessing. You're the Man with this stuff.

[Weldangrind]

This was July 15 of this year as we crossed the Hoover Dam into Arizona. Yep, that's 118 Fahrenheit. 8O

http://i158.photobucket.com/albums/t109/Weldangrind/118Fahrenheit.jpg (http://s158.photobucket.com/albums/t109/Weldangrind/?action=view&current=118Fahrenheit.jpg)

[SpudRider]

Here is a series of three photographs I took in October, 2008, while riding my Zong along the Salmon River, upstream from Salmon, Idaho. The first photograph shows U.S. Route 93, winding northward through the Salmon River Valley, with the snow-covered Lemhi Range on the horizon. :)

http://i442.photobucket.com/albums/qq146/spudrider/MiscellaneousPhotos/SalmonTrip375.jpg

The next photo was taken farther ahead, at the bottom of the hill, at a bend in the Salmon River.

http://i442.photobucket.com/albums/qq146/spudrider/MiscellaneousPhotos/SalmonTrip384.jpg

Riding farther ahead, I snapped the third photograph near Ellis, Idaho. :)

http://i442.photobucket.com/albums/qq146/spudrider/MiscellaneousPhotos/Andy1619.jpg

Spud :)

[FastDoc]

Somewhere I have a pic of the Corvette's temp readout reading 00. I'll see if I can find that. I have a pic of the planes OAT (outside air temprature) gauge at -20F. That was over Sand Point, ID 4 years ago.

I like Brother Spud's pics better. The Northwest is amazing but ugh the winter!

[SpudRider]

Somewhere I have a pic of the Corvette's temp readout reading 00. I'll see if I can find that. I have a pic of the planes OAT (outside air temprature) gauge at -20F. That was over Sand Point, ID 4 years ago.

I like Brother Spud's pics better. The Northwest is amazing but ugh the winter!
In this life, we must take the good with the bad, Brother Bill. ;)

Spud :)

[TurboT]

So you're confirming the tool application T? I was only guessing. You're the Man with this stuff.

Well I've never seen one like that before, and Barnone I believe confirmed it.. but it does make sense. The 'fork' ends are shaped correctly to be some form of valve spring compressor. It may have been designed for the flat heads since the springs, retainers and clips were under the block deck and were a bastard to take apart with a conventional spring removal tool. The way that tool looks it would go in easier.

I guess in 'theory' you could use it to remove springs on a conventional engine without removing the head from the clylinder as well.. kind of like an 'in car' valve spring compressor. Would save you having to lever off the rocker stud.

I only took about 6 or 7 flatheads apart in my time, and I swore every time. You can imagine something from the 50's was pretty much a roach by the time I saw it, and I pretty much knew the casting would be fubar'd. You wouldn't know that for sure until the valves were out and cleaned it and magnufluxed the valve seats and cylinders.

Then of course when it was screwed you'd never see the customer again because why would he want to come pay you for your time to take apart scrap, and the parts were wrecked. So, he'd go find another and take it elsewhere and stiff you for the 8 hours labour for working on his junk. I hated that business.

Sorry for the diatribe.

[Weldangrind]

Of course, no offence intended towards Mr. Barnone, it's just that I know about your many years on the machine shop floor, T.

Thanks for responding Barnone.

Upon reviewing both of your responses, it seems that you guys are visualizing this tool as a spring compressor so that the retainer can be removed. This tool works in reverse of that. When you squeeze the handles, the tool ratchets open and holds in that position.

It seems like it might be designed to slip under a flathead spring and force it up (or down) against the block surface, but I can't be sure. I have spring compressors for OHV engines, and this would not compress a spring in the usual way. Does that make any sense at all?

[Barnone]

More on flat head valve removal tool.

http://i182.photobucket.com/albums/x85/Skeekah/141.jpg
Sunnen Valve Spring Compressor Ford Flathead


As previously stated, a bitch of a job without one of these tools.

As a side note, ever shim a Ford Model T engine with sheet tin (tin can) to reduce knocking? Man, I'm getting old.

[Cal25]

http://i168.photobucket.com/albums/u161/funager/Motorcycle/IMAG0028-1.jpg

Went out for a ride while the weather was good. This is a display locomotive in grapevine. They have a smaller, operational engine that is sometimes used. The trains run from Grapevine to the Ft Worth Stockyards and back.

[Weldangrind]

Thanks for the latest valve spring compressor tool photo, Barnone. I think I get it now.

You must compress the spring against the upper surface to remove the keepers. I couldn't wrap my mind around this one, because it compresses the spring against a surface, rather than into itself. The tool does the opposite job to what I'm accustomed to.

I found this pic that helped me:

http://flatheaddrag.com/Images/images8rt/8rtc05.jpg

[TurboT]

Thanks for the latest valve spring compressor tool photo, Barnone. I think I get it now.

You must compress the spring against the upper surface to remove the keepers. I couldn't wrap my mind around this one, because it compresses the spring against a surface, rather than into itself. The tool does the opposite job to what I'm accustomed to.

I found this pic that helped me:

http://flatheaddrag.com/Images/images8rt/8rtc05.jpg

That there photo is bringing back some bad memories. At least that one is clean. :)

[Weldangrind]

http://i168.photobucket.com/albums/u161/funager/Motorcycle/IMAG0028-1.jpg

Went out for a ride while the weather was good. This is a display locomotive in grapevine. They have a smaller, operational engine that is sometimes used. The trains run from Grapevine to the Ft Worth Stockyards and back.

That's a cool shot Cal. I can't believe how clean that curb is. You must live in a nice area.

[SpudRider]

http://i168.photobucket.com/albums/u161/funager/Motorcycle/IMAG0028-1.jpg

Went out for a ride while the weather was good. This is a display locomotive in grapevine. They have a smaller, operational engine that is sometimes used. The trains run from Grapevine to the Ft Worth Stockyards and back.
Thanks for posting the nice photo, Cal. :) Adding to the locomotive theme, here's a photograph I took at Promontory Summit, in October 2008. It shows two vintage locomotives posed at Golden Spike National Monument. The Transcontinental Railroad was completed at this point, in 1869, with the driving of the golden spike. The Central Pacific locomotive is on the left, and the Union Pacific locomotive is on the right. :)

http://i442.photobucket.com/albums/qq146/spudrider/MiscellaneousPhotos/GoldenSpike129.jpg

Spud :)

[Weldangrind]

I hit 100000km in my 2009 Caravan today. I've done that 11 times in the last 22 years. Yep, 1.1 million km in minivans, while wearing a golf shirt. I'm such a nerd.

http://i158.photobucket.com/albums/t109/Weldangrind/100K.jpg (http://s158.photobucket.com/albums/t109/Weldangrind/?action=view&current=100K.jpg)

[2LZ]

WAG....we ride China bikes. We're all nerds! :D

[Barnone]

W&G,
I just passed 100,000 miles on my 2002 Toyota Tacoma that I bought new in 2001. Longest ownership for me in any vehicle. She is still running strong so will stay for a while. Just put on the third set of tires.

I like a small truck for my daily driver. I am lucky living in the warm climates of Southwest Florida in the winter and Western North Carolina in the summer so I can usually ride the bikes.


Stopped by the feed store and picked up some corn for the hog traps. So far I haven't seen much sign of the hogs. Fifty pound bag of corn is up to $9.95.
Cow pellets are $9.35.

[Cal25]

http://i168.photobucket.com/albums/u161/funager/Motorcycle/IMAG0028-1.jpg

Went out for a ride while the weather was good. This is a display locomotive in grapevine. They have a smaller, operational engine that is sometimes used. The trains run from Grapevine to the Ft Worth Stockyards and back.

That's a cool shot Cal. I can't believe how clean that curb is. You must live in a nice area.

The parking lot is older, but the train was moved there during the last year or so. At one time I believe that they were restoring this for use. It appears now that it is just going to sit here now and not be used.

[Weldangrind]

This is our version of Old Glory. This gigantic flag flies over Surrey, BC, and gets changed periodically. I once saw it flying at half mast when Princess Diana died.

http://i158.photobucket.com/albums/t109/Weldangrind/RedGlory.jpg (http://s158.photobucket.com/albums/t109/Weldangrind/?action=view&current=RedGlory.jpg)

[Cal25]

Thats a boat?

[katoranger]

Thats a boat?

I believe he meant staff. :wink:

[FastDoc]

God bless you guys but you need to chip in to get a new flag.

[Weldangrind]

Thats a boat?

I believe he meant staff. :wink:

You're totally correct. I didn't even think about it; "half mast" is a hangover from Navy cadets. :lol:

[Weldangrind]

God bless you guys but you need to chip in to get a new flag.

It's really rare that it gets that bad before it's changed. It once became detached from the pole and landed on my buddy's windshield. It covered the whole car. :lol:

[Barnone]

This is our version of Old Glory. This gigantic flag flies over Surrey, BC, and gets changed periodically. I once saw it flying at half mast when Princess Diana died.

http://i158.photobucket.com/albums/t109/Weldangrind/RedGlory.jpg (http://s158.photobucket.com/albums/t109/Weldangrind/?action=view&current=RedGlory.jpg)

Is it me or is that building leaning?

[Cal25]

I think it's an optical illustration.

[SpudRider]

I think it's an optical illustration.
I think the building is leaning into the wind! 8O

Spud :)

[FastDoc]

Canada leans to the left. The building is straight.

[Jim]

Canada leans to the left. The building is straight.


:lol: :lol: :lol:

[cheesy]

I hit 100000km in my 2009 Caravan today. I've done that 11 times in the last 22 years. Yep, 1.1 million km in minivans, while wearing a golf shirt. I'm such a nerd.

http://i158.photobucket.com/albums/t109/Weldangrind/100K.jpg (http://s158.photobucket.com/albums/t109/Weldangrind/?action=view&current=100K.jpg)
Not to one up ya, but.....
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v493/bikamper/3456789.jpg
November of last year on my 95 F150. At 357,000 miles now. I had Mrs. Cheesy take the pic while I was driving.

[SpudRider]

That's a lot of miles, Cheesy! :D

In early October, I rode my Zong on a two-day trip to Montana. I will soon be posting photographs from this trip in the Ride Reports Forum. :) While riding home, approaching Howe, Idaho, I swerved to avoid a low-flying object crossing the road in front of me! Taking advantage of the Zong’s dual sport capabilities, I rode into the brush and avoided a crash. 8O The pilot on the broomstick was not so fortunate. :twisted:

http://i442.photobucket.com/albums/qq146/spudrider/MiscellaneousPhotos/SalmonTrip10-2-10334.jpg

Final Score: Zong 1 – Witch 0. :P

Spud 8)

[BillR]

I think it's an optical illustration.
Nah...Fig Newton of your homogenation...
B

[FastDoc]

Go Ford!

I'm glad that witch didn't get her pilot's license through me! :P

[Weldangrind]

November of last year on my 95 F150. At 357,000 miles now. I had Mrs. Cheesy take the pic while I was driving.

Since 1995, I've been through six minivans, most of 'em Dodges. I wouldn't expect any of 'em to make it to 357,000 miles!

Son of Weldangrind bought a '91 Ranger this past summer, and it has 300,000 km on it. We figure it's nicely broken in. :D

[FastDoc]

November of last year on my 95 F150. At 357,000 miles now. I had Mrs. Cheesy take the pic while I was driving.

Since 1995, I've been through six minivans, most of 'em Dodges. I wouldn't expect any of 'em to make it to 357,000 miles!

Son of Weldangrind bought a '91 Ranger this past summer, and it has 300,000 km on it. We figure it's nicely broken in. :D

On the Ranger forum, www.therangerstation.com, 200,000-300,000 miles on a Ranger is pretty common. Simple reliable overbuilt beasts.

[Weldangrind]

This is one of the funniest business names I've seen, and it was in Cle Elum, WA.

It's just fun to say. :lol:

http://i158.photobucket.com/albums/t109/Weldangrind/ChewNButts.jpg (http://s158.photobucket.com/albums/t109/Weldangrind/?action=view&current=ChewNButts.jpg)

[Jim]

I don't have a picture, but another one I like, I see the trucks around here occasional, "Penguin Meat Company"... Hmm, I wonder if it tastes like chicken?

[katoranger]

My Ranger is still pretty low at 152,000. My 97 Buick is up to 186,000.

I believe my Dad's work E350 is over the 300K mark.

[FastDoc]

I've been to Cle Elum a few times and never saw that sign! I'll have to look for it next time.

[Weldangrind]

Doc, there was a greasy spoon restaurant just down the road that was fantastic. The name escapes me for the moment, but it was on the same side of the street as Chew-N-Butts, just further South.

Edit: I think it is the Homestead Restaurant.

[cheesy]

My Ranger is still pretty low at 152,000. My 97 Buick is up to 186,000.

I believe my Dad's work E350 is over the 300K mark.

My company shop truck, a 2000 F150, is nearing the 400K mark. Has the 5.4L Triton and can still slap the snot outta Mrs. Cheesys' A4 Turbo.

[FastDoc]

Here's a video of the day. :D

Today was the first day the weather has been good enough for me to fly in two weeks so I got the Maule up. The weather was barely good enough, indeed I flew through some freezing rain and started to pick up ice and had to turn around. 8O

This video is a 45 degree turn in level flight at 120MPH which works out to 2G's. It was a little tough to smoothly execute the manuver and hold the camera. :wink:

It doesn't look nearly as cool in the video as it is in real life but enjoy. :P

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v25/maule/th_MOV06516.jpg (http://smg.photobucket.com/albums/v25/maule/?action=view&current=MOV06516.mp4)

[SpudRider]

Here's a photograph I took in late November, 2008. At that time, my Zong was almost pure stock, except for the Edge 2 tail light, and the rectangular mirrors. ;) My bike is shod with the rarest of commodities, the Chinese, Kingstone, dual sport tires! 8O These tires are manufactured from precious unobtainium, and currently cannot be purchased anywhere in the United States of America. ;)

http://i442.photobucket.com/albums/qq146/spudrider/MiscellaneousPhotos/NovemberTripsandMaintenance133.jpg

Spud :)

[MICRider]

Here's a video of the day. :D

Today was the first day the weather has been good enough for me to fly in two weeks so I got the Maule up. The weather was barely good enough, indeed I flew through some freezing rain and started to pick up ice and had to turn around. 8O

This video is a 45 degree turn in level flight at 120MPH which works out to 2G's. It was a little tough to smoothly execute the manuver and hold the camera. :wink:

It doesn't look nearly as cool in the video as it is in real life but enjoy. :P

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v25/maule/th_MOV06516.jpg (http://smg.photobucket.com/albums/v25/maule/?action=view&current=MOV06516.mp4)

Cool video! I'm absolutely terrified of flying but have been up in a small chopper 4 times with my son because he loves choppers and wants to be a helicopter pilot when he grows up. The first time we went up I almost kissed the ground when we landed :D. Whoever flies these machines has my utmost respect!

Cheers,
Stew

[FastDoc]

Here's anothe video.

130MPH, 2,000 feet over the frozen desert, looking straight down.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v25/maule/th_MOV06517.jpg (http://smg.photobucket.com/albums/v25/maule/?action=view&current=MOV06517.mp4)

[lego1970]

http://i567.photobucket.com/albums/ss116/lego1970/colorado2010.jpg

Never have posted a pic on this website, don't know if this will work or not. Anyway this is a pic my son took of me while we when hiking in Colorado this past summer.

Sorry the size is gigantic. I work on that later. I'm still kinda slow with computers.

[MICRider]

Excellent pic Lego, beautiful countryside!

Cheers,
Stew

[lego1970]

Thanks MICrider, I've always enjoyed your guys pics, so I guess it's time for me to at least post myself and bike.

Last set of pics.

This one is my son from last year riding his Yamaha PW50 in the backyard. He really doesn't ride it much anymore. I might sell it and try to upgrade him this summer if he wants to. The second pic is my DR650 at a nearby lake in Missouri. I know, it's not a true chinabike but I'm sure a lot of componants were made in China....

http://i567.photobucket.com/albums/ss116/lego1970/JoryYamaha.jpg

http://i567.photobucket.com/albums/ss116/lego1970/Suzuki.jpg

[lego1970]

If anybody knows how to shrink those pics to normal size, feel free. Otherwise, I'll try working on that tomorrow.

[SpudRider]

You did a great job posting your first photos, Lego! Thank you for sharing them with us. :D

Spud :)

[FastDoc]

Great pics, Lego. I dig the DR!

[Jim]

Great pics, I really like that last one. :)

[lego1970]

Thanks guys.

[Jim]

If you want to resize them (I think they're fine however), photobucket has an option so it will resize them automatically when you upload them.

[lego1970]

Yea, that's what I was useing was photobucket. I'm off work tomorrow so I'll check that out when I can sit down and focus. Thanks Jim.

[Weldangrind]

Doc, those videos were really cool. 8) That first one looked more like 80 degrees in the video. 8O

It sure looked cold. How's the heater?

[Weldangrind]

Excellent pics Lego, I wouldn't change them. I like the shot of your lad on the PW; it looks like a high speed run. :D

I covet your DR.

[Weldangrind]

I snapped this shot at the Grand Canyon this summer, and I was surprised to learn that Uranium used to be mined there.

http://i158.photobucket.com/albums/t109/Weldangrind/GrandcanyonMining.jpg (http://s158.photobucket.com/albums/t109/Weldangrind/?action=view&current=GrandcanyonMining.jpg)

I was even more surprised to learn that they're at it again. It is apparently because of nuclear energy needs. http://www.care2.com/causes/environment/blog/destructive-uranium-mining-approved-in-the-grand-canyon/

[lego1970]

I knew Uranium was mined out west but didn't know it was mined in the Grand Canyon area. I like the part where it says something like "still cleaning from only 13 years of mining" but then to find out we're still mining there. It's kinda like I'm an Arborist (although I truck drive more) so I'm kinda supposed to care for trees, yet over 75% of the jobs I get are to just cut the tree down. I took my son out there two summers ago but it was on the way back from Nevada/California and we were on kinda of a tight schedule so didn't get a chance to really explore much. Just kinda drove on the south rim and stopped a couple times to take pics.

Also, I agree Fastdoc's videos are cool. I remember the first pics he posted of his plane.....very cool. Living life to it's fullest, I admire that.

[Jim]

I was really interested in flying, but it's not a cheap hobby to get into, so now I'm a China Rider :lol: Always loved flying though, maybe it had to do with the movie those magnificent men and their flying machines? Magnificent Doc :)



From the Vancouver Motorcycle Show
http://i60.photobucket.com/albums/h32/truckgotstuck/honda.jpg

[FastDoc]

Doc, those videos were really cool. 8) That first one looked more like 80 degrees in the video. 8O

It sure looked cold. How's the heater?

80 degrees is doable, but it's at the plane's limit of 3.8 G's and pretty uncomfortable. When you visit I can demonstrate the manuver if you like. 8)

The outside air temp at that altitude was 20F. The plane was designed for use in Alaska as a bushplane so it is fitted with two heaters, front and rear. They are adequate down to -20F in my experiance. That's the coldest I've seen personally.

[2LZ]

Well, in the spirit of bringing a little cheer to those locked down in that white stuff, I thought I'd reflect back on our Mariposa Trip we took last September. Have faith.....the sun will shine again! :D

Here is a shot of Yosemite Valley heading up HWY 41. You can even see Half Dome in the distance.
http://i920.photobucket.com/albums/ad41/2LZ_photos/Mariposa1.jpg

Here is a shot of the side of Half Dome from Washburn Point heading up to Glacier Point. Beautiful day for a ride. Weather was perfect.
It's rumored that this is only about 3 hours from the town of Paso Robles. :wink:
http://i920.photobucket.com/albums/ad41/2LZ_photos/Mariposa2.jpg

Mrs 2LZ and I packed up and riding through Sutter Creek on Historic HWY 49. She's mastered the 100 cubic inches in her Kingpin.
http://i920.photobucket.com/albums/ad41/2LZ_photos/Mariposa5.jpg

Saturday evening, after a long day out on the road, some of the Vicsters gather at mine and Mrs. 2LZ hotel room for a wee bit of refreshment.
That's us in the middle.
http://i920.photobucket.com/albums/ad41/2LZ_photos/Mariposa4.jpg

[FastDoc]

Nice pics, 2LZ.

I had my phone interview with Paso Robles this afternoon and the job is mine if I want it...

[lego1970]

I've never made it to Yosemite. Growing up one of my first outdoors books had a picture of Half Dome on the cover. I've always wanted to go there. Great pics. That looked like a real nice time.

[SpudRider]

Got mud? :lol:

http://i442.photobucket.com/albums/qq146/spudrider/MiscellaneousPhotos/LastKinportInmanAndy183.jpg

http://i442.photobucket.com/albums/qq146/spudrider/MiscellaneousPhotos/LastKinportInmanAndy185.jpg

Spud :)

[FastDoc]

So it's not just pigs that like to play in the mud!

Got powerwasher? :P

[BillR]

Cool video! I'm absolutely terrified of flying but have been up in a small chopper 4 times with my son because he loves choppers and wants to be a helicopter pilot when he grows up. The first time we went up I almost kissed the ground when we landed :D. Whoever flies these machines has my utmost respect!
Cheers,
Stew
Nice vid there Doc, thanks.

Stew,
I like flying myself...I've also only been in a heli a few times. I watched the pilot doing about 6 things at one time, between his hands and feet... 8O decided that I didn't really want to fly helis... :lol:
Then I decided to try an RC version...Yep, takes a bit more effort than the planes do... :wink: my hands were constantly making small corrections to keep it in a steady hover, whereas, my planes were trimmed for "hands off" flight.
Bill R

[BillR]

"I can demonstrate the manuver if you like." 8)

I think that is what the air-med heli pilot said when we asked him "how far over will this thing bank?" :D during a demo flight...
I didn't hear his answer too well over the screams as we looked out the window straight down at the ground... 8O :lol: :lol:
Bill R

[FastDoc]

LOL!

Yes helicopters, IMO, are much harder to fly than airplanes, and airplanes are by no means easy.

My buddy Ron, a Marine helicopter pilot (retired) for 17 years bought me a helicopter lesson for my birthday a few years ago. OMG was it hard to fly! Not for me... 8O

[Weldangrind]

Airplanes make sense; they respond to Bernoulli's principle, which gives the wings lift.

Helicopters just beat the air into submission.

[Weldangrind]

This is one of our favourite spots (sorry for the crummy photos, next time I'll use Mrs. Weldangrind's SLR). Deception Pass bridges Whidbey Island with Fidalgo Island in NW Washington State.

http://i158.photobucket.com/albums/t109/Weldangrind/DeceptionPassBridge.jpg (http://s158.photobucket.com/albums/t109/Weldangrind/?action=view&current=DeceptionPassBridge.jpg)

This is the view to the East:

http://i158.photobucket.com/albums/t109/Weldangrind/DeceptionPassEast.jpg (http://s158.photobucket.com/albums/t109/Weldangrind/?action=view&current=DeceptionPassEast.jpg)

The Western view:

http://i158.photobucket.com/albums/t109/Weldangrind/DeceptionPassWest.jpg (http://s158.photobucket.com/albums/t109/Weldangrind/?action=view&current=DeceptionPassWest.jpg)

http://i158.photobucket.com/albums/t109/Weldangrind/DeceptionPassPlaque.jpg (http://s158.photobucket.com/albums/t109/Weldangrind/?action=view&current=DeceptionPassPlaque.jpg)

[FastDoc]

Here's a pic from my Maule forum. This guy keeps his Maule on skis in his backyard! In the summer it's on floats.

Alaska, of course. 8)

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v25/maule/051.jpg

[yellowxj]

http://img411.imageshack.us/img411/2740/dscn25640.jpg (http://img411.imageshack.us/i/dscn25640.jpg/)

Uploaded with ImageShack.us (http://imageshack.us)

Going down the lower 2 trail in the now closed Upper Tellico OHV area...my kids loved that place more than me :(

[FastDoc]

Wow. I think I'd have a tough time walking there! I think The Dirt Rat could do it though 8) . Cool picture!

[Weldangrind]

yellowxj, that's amazing articulation! Dig the fender cut-outs. 8)

[Weldangrind]

We visited the Grand Canyon in July of 2010. I don't have the words to describe it.

http://i158.photobucket.com/albums/t109/Weldangrind/GrandCanyon.jpg (http://s158.photobucket.com/albums/t109/Weldangrind/?action=view&current=GrandCanyon.jpg)

[FastDoc]

Nice pic W&G. I agree there are no words or picture that does it justice.

[SpudRider]

Thanks for posting the great photo, W&G. :) United States President Teddy Roosevelt once made the comment that Western American scenery "bankrupts the English language." He was correct; even photographs can't do justice to the majestic scenery of the American West. ;)

Here's a photograph of the headwaters of the Snake River, with the majestic Teton Range in the background. :)

http://i442.photobucket.com/albums/qq146/spudrider/MiscellaneousPhotos/JacksonTrip2010354.jpg

Spud :)

[FastDoc]

OMG is that a beautiful pic, Spud. The Zong looks right at home there. My end of the Snake, where it empties into the Columbia, is not quite as pretty.

[SpudRider]

OMG is that a beautiful pic, Spud. The Zong looks right at home there. My end of the Snake, where it empties into the Columbia, is not quite as pretty.
Thank you, Doc. :) That photograph makes me want to go fishing, and I'm not even a fisherman! :lol:

Spud :)

[FastDoc]

Here's my end of the same river:

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v25/maule/wallula_gap_early_morning_sail_2005.jpg

[FastDoc]

Don't know why that ain't working...

[FastDoc]

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v25/maule/wallula_gap_early_morning_sail_2005-1.jpg

[FastDoc]

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v25/maule/twin_sisters_from_port_kelley_2005.jpg

[FastDoc]

Just a bit drier!

[yellowxj]

yellowxj, that's amazing articulation! Dig the fender cut-outs. 8)

LOL. If you like that watch this almost disastrous video of my cherokee going down a ledge...if you watch the spare tire on the roof you'll see the jeep start to settle to the side...but I wasnt going down like that so I gave it a little blip of the throttle, then a lesson in weight transfer...turn down the volume though...my wife yells ALOT (first part terror, second part cheer)...video of the day?

http://www.youtube.com/user/blueridge4x4#p/a/u/0/gUj26QABTPo

[Weldangrind]

That's the vid I watched earlier today. You're the Man!

That's the vid of the year. :D

[Jim]

http://i60.photobucket.com/albums/h32/truckgotstuck/Hemlock001.jpg

[Weldangrind]

Wow. Was that Hemlock yesterday?

[Jim]

Yeah, that was Hemlock, looking towards Harison from the green chairlift. You can see where the snow line is on the distant mountains.

[lego1970]

Hwy 14 in Washington about an hour east of Portland. Early 2000's. I remember taking it because in person you could see the top of Mt. Hood sticking out in the sky, but the camera didn't pick it up. I seldom took hwy14 but this was after the time when you couldn't just buy an Oregon plate for the year and instead had to report and pay all miles in Oregon per trip. Anyway, pretty (in person) but not as majestic as the Teton shot from Spud.
http://i567.photobucket.com/albums/ss116/lego1970/columbiariver-1.jpg

[FastDoc]

Hey that's about an hour away from me!

[lego1970]

FastDoc, yea I used to travel in your neck of the woods quite a bit but it's been about 3 years since I've trucked in that area. When you got hit by that girl last year, I could almost visualize in my head where you were and what it looked like since most of the time, I would be going thru Kennewick on I-82 at night. After you told us about the accident, I could picture that accident in my head. I visualize it as if it happened in the beam of my headlights, kinda like if I was watching it thru my windshield.

[Jim]

This was posted on Hemlocks (local ski hill) facebook page and I thought it was a good one...

http://i60.photobucket.com/albums/h32/truckgotstuck/frosty.jpg

[lego1970]

The snowman better run 8O

[FastDoc]

Pretty creative on how some sticks and snow could be made to be so expressive. :D

[SpudRider]

Pretty creative on how some sticks and snow could be made to be so expressive. :D
Indeed! :lol: That's a great photo, Jim. :)

Spud :)

[frostbite]

We receive about 6-8 inches of rain in a 24 hour period this week.

http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc4/hs1226.snc4/155889_10150345315120542_876435541_16181516_164915 8_n.jpg

http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc4/hs1238.snc4/157005_10150353397150333_633080332_16268690_150832 1_n.jpg

[Jim]

Do you have any more pictures of pulling that truck out of there?

[frostbite]

I don't think so but I'll dig around a bit.

[Barnone]

frostbite,
Did that track hoe get the truck out? What a mess!

[Jim]

They work very good for pulling trucks out, that one's leaning a lot but there shouldn't be much weight on it... :)

And for a picture, first day driving a loader, I've got some experience with a cat(bulldozer) and excavator, but hadn't used a loader up till this point.

http://i60.photobucket.com/albums/h32/truckgotstuck/corby006.jpg
(the picture may be a bit distorted I was driving by to spin around beside the loader so I was moving when the picture was taken on my phone.)

[lego1970]

I like loaders, most are similiar to forklifts so the joysticks come very natural to me. Can't stand either foot or joystick bobcats though. Never messed with a dozers other then loading them up on drop decks. Plenty of experience operating log grapples which I believe is set up the same as an escavator or maybe a backhoe. I can't remember since I've only used a escavator and backhoe a few times and most of the newer backhoes have two settings for either traditional backhoe operations or to switch it over to escavator joystick settings so I always forget which is which.

Not a clear picture of the actual picker but again, I believe the joysticks are set up like an escavotor, minus not being able to move vehicle at same time. I also pick up a lot of scrap metal and I love watching the guys at the salvage yard move the escavtors while moving the machine around at the same time. Looks like something out of Terminator movies.

http://i567.photobucket.com/albums/ss116/lego1970/029-1.jpg

[Jim]

The cat I drove is the new kind (I drove the old kind with more foot pedals only once), it is operated with two joysticks. I've never run a bobcat or forklift though. The loader I was driving has a steering wheel, gas brake and declutch(?) pedal, and then two levers one for the boom and one for the bucket. The excavators I've driven have all been cat controls, I haven't tried any with John Deere controls (apparently they reversed or something).

Is that your truck there lego?

[lego1970]

No, I haven't owned a truck in a few years. The truck in the picture is the mills truck that I ran last summer. The mill filed bankruptcy last summer and work was slow because they didn't have money to buy new logs, so even though they are still afloat, me and a few others had to jump ship. Now I'm hauling regular freight during the week and do a little residentail tree work on the weekends I don't have my son.

However now that fuel prices have been staying somewhat steady and truck prices are a dime a dozen, I might try to buy an older truck for under $25k this summer to run lumber or rock.

Do you work at those oil/shale strip mines that I hear about and see on TV?

[FastDoc]

My best friend Ron just retired and is selling his Volvo big rig and reefer cheap.

[Jim]

No, I haven't owned a truck in a few years. The truck in the picture is the mills truck that I ran last summer. The mill filed bankruptcy last summer and work was slow because they didn't have money to buy new logs, so even though they are still afloat, me and a few others had to jump ship. Now I'm hauling regular freight during the week and do a little residentail tree work on the weekends I don't have my son.

Ahh right on... Yeah a lot of places are having trouble with the economy the way it is... I think it will be a few years before it's better still. In BC the mills have been having trouble for a long time, and I'm no expert, but I believe it has to do with the governments policy on simply selling our raw materials rather then having them milled here and then selling the final product.

It's good you found something to keep you busy.

However now that fuel prices have been staying somewhat steady and truck prices are a dime a dozen, I might try to buy an older truck for under $25k this summer to run lumber or rock.

I saw a really nice Pete 379 not too long ago for about that price... It had me interested, but everyone tells me I can't make money with a highway truck.

Do you work at those oil/shale strip mines that I hear about and see on TV?

No... I worked for my parents... My dad has a small local trucking company, which he's had for something like 30 years... It's him and another guy, and they hire trucks when they need them. About 5 years ago they got a truck for me and I started working there... But it really slowed down last year and they had no work for me. Now my truck is sitting... It's 5 years old with only 225K Km's on it. They do a lot of private residential and commercial jobs, and a lot of farms and equestrian centers. They do the trucking, hauling in, hauling out, etc... And we work for a few excavator operators / contractors, and builders. My truck being a single truck did a lot of on site trucking. That's where I got the excavator experience and some cat experience, I would load myself quite often. Also where I found out how well excavators pull trucks out of all sorts of sticky situations :lol:

Now I'm working for a local gravel pit, they have a few local pits, and they also do deliveries. I'm kind of temporary part time on call... I'm filling in for one of their drives who is injured (he twisted his ankle getting out of the truck, and he's been off for months, now they think he may need surgery). I've been getting quite a few hours, but I don't know what I'll be doing when he comes back (whenever that may be). Ideally I would like to start working for my parents again... Possibly my dad could retire and I could continue on... Not sure though. They don't really have enough work right now still.

[lego1970]

My best friend Ron just retired and is selling his Volvo big rig and reefer cheap.

I've driven and really like the newer Volvo's, but they are hard and expensive to work on, plus most universal aftermarket parts, (like mirrors, lights, guages, steering wheels) can't be made to cleanly fit them. If I was going OTR where you spend over 90% of your time going 65mph+ and made enough money to trade in a truck every few years I would go with an Aero truck. However, for regional applications that requires some off road work, a truck that is easy to clean (especially the frame, suspension, and underneath) and service is very important. Having said that, I wouldn't rule out a bare bones Volvo, or Freightliner Columbia. Something without skirts, that way it is easy to clean the salt and mud of your grease fittings, plus they are not pitch dark when you crawl underneath them.

I've mostly driven and worked on Freightliners FLD's and Classics, KW's, Pete's and a couple International, so I'll probably stick with what I know.

[FastDoc]

Lego, PM sent.

[lego1970]

I saw a really nice Pete 379 not too long ago for about that price... It had me interested, but everyone tells me I can't make money with a highway truck.


Yea, highway trucks are not set up for any kind of off road work. The big sleepers trucks frames flex, any skirts get broken off and just trap mud, the suspension and frames are normaly set up for lighter work. Just look how much that frame on that international flexed in the picture Frostbite posted, or look at the truck I posted. It had a fridge, carpet, the whole nine yards, but it had weak 36k rears that creaked and moaned anytime I loaded it down heavy.....couldn't take turns very fast in it loaded down.

As for making money, an old road truck can still be made to work local, but like anything care has to be taken. As for going OTR, productivity wins, so if you can stay away from home for a long time and your truck isn't constantly breaking driving up your maintenance cost and reducing your revenue, it can work......but it's a lot of hours.
Do you work at those oil/shale strip mines that I hear about and see on TV?

No... I worked for my parents... My dad has a small local trucking company, which he's had for something like 30 years... It's him and another guy, and they hire trucks when they need them. About 5 years ago they got a truck for me and I started working there... But it really slowed down last year and they had no work for me. Now my truck is sitting... It's 5 years old with only 225K Km's on it. They do a lot of private residential and commercial jobs, and a lot of farms and equestrian centers. They do the trucking, hauling in, hauling out, etc... And we work for a few excavator operators / contractors, and builders. My truck being a single truck did a lot of on site trucking. That's where I got the excavator experience and some cat experience, I would load myself quite often. Also where I found out how well excavators pull trucks out of all sorts of sticky situations :lol:

Now I'm working for a local gravel pit, they have a few local pits, and they also do deliveries. I'm kind of temporary part time on call... I'm filling in for one of their drives who is injured (he twisted his ankle getting out of the truck, and he's been off for months, now they think he may need surgery). I've been getting quite a few hours, but I don't know what I'll be doing when he comes back (whenever that may be). Ideally I would like to start working for my parents again... Possibly my dad could retire and I could continue on... Not sure though. They don't really have enough work right now still.

That's awesome. I bet you've gained a lot of experience both with the job your doing now and from your folks. As far as work goes.....I really don't know. It seams bleak, considering the insurance rates keep climbing, the restrictions are getting tougher, the rates are slowly rising but for the most part stagnant, the fuel is somewhat stable but any world event can easily drive it up, and the demands for most goods shipped via trucks has slowed. Having said all that, truck prices are cheap, most of the weaker carriers have gone under, and people are going to continue to eat and build, so in a way, it might not be a bad time to start back into it.......as long as it can be done without borrowing so a guy doesn't get himself in a bind. At least that's my thinking.....although I've been wrong many, many times before :? [/quote]

[Jim]

Oh I didn't mean using a highway truck for local stuff, I meant taking it out on the highway where it was intended :) Apparently there's more money in gravel from what I've been told... Though I'm just a driver I don't know any of the business side of things.

The gravel trucks (here at least, I know there are tougher weight restrictions in the USA, varying by state) definitely are setup for heavy hauling... When you put the transfer box in, you get a lot of weight. The trailer box hauls 10tons (metric) more then the truck, so the truck should be right around 36 metric tons (tandem axle) with the trailer box in.

Yeah I have gained a fair bit of experience, for my parents company I did a lot of off road driving, sand, mud, etc, tight places and so on... I just didn't get any trailer work... No one would hire me because I didn't have 2 years of trailer experience (though I've been licensed for it for years, and did pull a trailer at driving school and a little trailer here and there), the one I'm at now, my sister works as dispatch and suggested me to them one day when they were talking about looking for a part time guy to fill in for the injured driver... I've gotten a fair bit of trailer experience there, which should help in the future... There's not much too it really, and I've got the hang of backing it up with the 2 articulation points now.

I think our local (gravel anyways) trucking rates are still lower then they were a few years ago.. The government started some big projects as the economy was slowing down and put out a huge contract to an out of province company so we got new trucks in the market where the local trucks were already slow, and they hire trucks too, but for a lot lower rates... I don't know the numbers for sure but I think around $20(or more) less per hour then before.

http://i60.photobucket.com/albums/h32/truckgotstuck/corby005.jpg
(this isn't the one I was saying had a unique paint job, that's my parents co.).

[lego1970]

Oh, ok. I misunderstood what you meant by highway trucks. Yea the trucks in your area are spec'd for more weight. For the states, most trucks are built with the light componants with highway gears, trying to maximize what you can out of 80,000 lbs. Up in Maine, New Hampshere, and Michigan, they seem to spec the trucks heavier. I guess their laws are more like Canada? For me and my work in the midwest I like something inbetween the real heavy spec'd trucks and the highway trucks. Maybe like a heavy single frame, under 240 wheelbase (w/sleeper) 3.91 rears w24.5's or 3.70 rears w/22.5's full lockers, 13,15, or 18 speed w/14 to 1 low gear and .73/.81 top gear. 13k front and 46k rears, 1500sq" radiator. Depending on engine that set up is usually weighs around 18.5k.

It's funny how the big companies judge experience. Your backing doubles? That's pretty impressive. I used to be able to push planes in hangers which has two axis points (tow hook on vehicle and nose landing gear) but that's been years. I know for me I would struggle to get a 53' Van in some docks but it would come back to me quickly and I don't think I'd hit anything (knock on wood)....I would just have to make a few more pull ups or have to get out and check a couple more times. To me, I'd rather have somebody like you or me that knows a little about trucks then somebody that can only drive, but that's just me. Anyway, take care, Adam.

[lego1970]

Some airplane pics. I learned to fly the little Cesna 152 and did a couple solos but never did get my PPL. I'll admit it, despite being a tree guy, I'm afraid of heights and never could get over my fear of flying despite my respect for the machine. These pics were from the mid to late 90's.

The airport was great....well for me. The guys...some were ex-TWA pilots, some were ex-Marine pilots, and some were ex- crop duster and all had some great stories to tell. The coke machine had six dispenser, one coke, one mountain dew, and the rest was......use your imagination.


This is the plane I flew during training with the instructor and during my few solo flights. It's about an early 80's Cesna 152.
[/img]http://i567.photobucket.com/albums/ss116/lego1970/roosterville.jpg

This is on my second or third solo flight. Liberty, Mo. USA.
[/img]http://i567.photobucket.com/albums/ss116/lego1970/roosterville2.jpg

This is the "Love Machine". The owner of the plane got together with a local radio to allow couples to join the "mile high club". He was desperate for money. It's a early 60's Aztec? Maybe FastDoc can correct me if I'm wrong.
[/img]http://i567.photobucket.com/albums/ss116/lego1970/roosterville3.jpg

[FastDoc]

Looks like an Aztec, may be an Apache. Hard to tell in a head on view as the easiest differences to spot are in the nose.

Nice little Cessna. My first plane was a 1985 152. Honest little ship. It is so cool you soloed. I bet that was one of the best moments of your life.

[FastDoc]

Here's a pic of my humble little Cessna. I loved that plane. Sold it when I upgraded to the Maule:

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v25/maule/Cessnapostsolo.jpg

Lined up for takeoff on my first solo flight on Runway 28, Hayward, Kalifornia:

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v25/maule/P5280001.jpg

The happy dork:

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v25/maule/P5280019.jpg

I appear to have aged, a lot. :cry:

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v25/maule/p5060002.jpg

[Jim]

Your backing doubles?

Not really doubles, just the transfer and end dump trailers, they hook to the truck with a pintle hitch and then front two axles (of the 4 axle trailer) are on a turn table. The pic I posted is the end dump trailer jack-knifed beside me so I could dump the truck.


I like the air plane pictures, I was interested in flying, but I don't have the money required to get into it (or the dedication). Still love going to the airshow though. I got to go up in gliders when I was younger and they let you fly, and a relative also had a couple planes, got to go up with him once and a while, unfortunately he crashed a few years back, not sure if it was mechanical or what.

[FastDoc]

My offer to take any Chinarider friend of mine flying anytime they visit still stands, Jim.