From Coast to Coast

BernhardBK · Post by **BernhardBK** » Sun May 29, 2022 5:15 pm

On Wednesday, June 1st, our tour is going to start with two years delay.
„We“ means, a group of 10 Ford Model T Friends from Germany. Three married couples and two two-men-driver-teams. We all belong to the Alpenchapter, the German and Austrian chapter of the Ford Model T club of America.

We stored 5 Model Ts for 2 to 3 years in Milford, Pa.

First we will perform maintenance and do some repair work, which we recognise this week, so that the Ts should be prepared for the 4.000 miles trip from the east coast to the west coast.
We all have at least one Model T in Germany and many years Tin Lizzie experiences, hopefully this will help us to solve all the problems, which we‘ll encounter…
Latest next Sunday we’ll plan to start our trip.
The rough route should be: Newark, Milford, PA, Niagara Falls, Detroit, Chicago, Mount Rushmore, Salt Lake City, San Fransisco.

I am very excited to meet my friends in the plane and the arrive in the States on Wednesday.

From time to time I will update this post, so you could follow our adventures and maybe we could meet some of the many T drivers of the homeland of our Ford Model T.

Greetings from Germany
Bernd Klingels
Kirchberg (Hunsrück)

Post by **DLodge** » Sun May 29, 2022 5:21 pm

By all means post your route and your progress. If they know where you are going to be, I'm sure that people along your route will be happy to see you.

It looks like you are going too far north for me.

Scott_Conger · Post by **Scott_Conger** » Sun May 29, 2022 5:26 pm

All the best to you and your crew, Berndt

Welcome to the forum, and please do keep us apprised of your progress

perry kete · Post by **perry kete** » Sun May 29, 2022 5:44 pm

Sounds like a great trip.

Perhaps you could post a map with the roads highlighted that you will be traveling on. This way if you do encounter any trouble along the way folks here in the states can offer assistance or even travel with you for a short distance in their Model T's.

Norman Kling · Post by **Norman Kling** » Sun May 29, 2022 7:10 pm

Welcome to you and your group. This is quite a goal. I wish you well. I would suggest that you contact someone from each local club along your route and let them know what day you plan to pass that area. Some might even like to form a local tour to come and meet you and perhaps go part of the way with you. You will also have a source of helpers in case you need some repair work. let me caution you, at this time head gaskets are not available, so If you have access to bring some along with you just in case someone needs one.
We might be related from way back. I understand that I am descended from Johan Ludwig Kling who arrived in the colonies about 1755 and he fought with New York colony against the king. Many people who came here years ago had the spelling of their surnames changed when they arrived in America. So there is a remote possibility that we are related.
Have a good trip.
Norm Kling

Post by **Oldav8tor** » Sun May 29, 2022 8:11 pm

Welcome to the US - please keep us informed of your progress while you make your journey across the country. It would help to know what dates you expect to be where. More details on your route would also be helpful. Are you camping or staying at motels?

Southern Michigan has numerous Model T people and many resources to help you if you have problems. I hope your journey will include a visit to the Henry Ford Museum and the birthplace of the Model T, the Piquette Plant museum.

As Norman said, I'm sure Model T clubs along your route would love to meet you and extend some American hospitality. Talking to someone with local knowledge can be a lot of help on a trip such as yours.

Wayne Sheldon · Post by **Wayne Sheldon** » Sun May 29, 2022 8:28 pm

Sehr gut meine Deutschen freunde! Haben sie eine wunderbare Reise!

Hoffentlich, ist mein Duetsch niched allzu schlecht.

Post by **Steve Jelf** » Mon May 30, 2022 12:18 am

This is wonderful. I love Model T travel. Yes, do post photos. And do post the route so Model T folks along the way can meet you.

Post by **DHort** » Mon May 30, 2022 1:32 am

Gute Reise

I have one caution as you move across the US. Do not stop or break down in Gary, Indiana. I believe our friend Steve Jelf fought with a pothole there and the pothole won. Not a safe city.

If you are following the Yellowstone Trail please let me know. I can walk to the trail from my house. I would also love to share a beer with you on your journey. Let me know when you get to Wisconsin. Wir haben Schnitzel, Bratwurst, Bier, Bier, and viel Fraulein. Did I mention we have beer.

Post by **George House** » Mon May 30, 2022 7:36 am

Ich wuenchen sie viel Gluck!!
Oh well, my hometown was founded 175 years ago by German pioneers and spelling gets lost over time

But I second what everyone else said. Unfortunately your route is too far north for me too

Rich P. Bingham · Post by **Rich P. Bingham** » Mon May 30, 2022 11:24 am

Best wishes to you and your group !! I'm looking forward to reading all about your adventures. I hope your route takes you near enough to us so that we might meet along the way and perhaps be able to offer some hospitality !!

Post by **TRDxB2** » Mon May 30, 2022 12:33 pm

Please post a map of your route across America. Members that may be in the vicinity could respond in advance in case you would need any assistance and could point out some places of interest along the way. Here in Moline Illinois (next to Rock Island Illinois, Davenport Iowa and a non Interstate place to cross the Mississippi River), my friend has 20 Brass T's (recently sold 4) and many T era memorabilia items. Send my an email if interested in visinting

Post by **Oldav8tor** » Mon May 30, 2022 1:40 pm

Are you crossing thru Canada from Niagara Falls to Detroit or going around the south shore of Lake Erie? If you are going thru Canada, be sure to read about the procedures for crossing the border. Canada has a phone app called ArriveCAN where you must enter your passport and vaccination data and notify them of your arrival within 72 hours of your planned crossing. I recently went on a T tour in Canada and it was easy crossing the border as long as you follow the instructions and prepare properly.

viel Glück

Tim

John Codman · Post by **John Codman** » Mon May 30, 2022 1:45 pm

DHort wrote: ↑
Mon May 30, 2022 1:32 am
Gute Reise

I have one caution as you move across the US. Do not stop or break down in Gary, Indiana. I believe our friend Steve Jelf fought with a pothole there and the pothole won. Not a safe city.

If you are following the Yellowstone Trail please let me know. I can walk to the trail from my house. I would also love to share a beer with you on your journey. Let me know when you get to Wisconsin. Wir haben Schnitzel, Bratwurst, Bier, Bier, and viel Fraulein. Did I mention we have beer.

For Gawd'd sake don't give them Budweiser, Coors, or Miller - that stuff is carwash, not beer.

BernhardBK · Post by **BernhardBK** » Mon May 30, 2022 5:42 pm

Thanks a lot for so many support offers and good wishes in deutsch und englisch. I did not expect this, but I am very happy about it. Vielen vielen Dank.
Yes, I like to have a cold beer in the evening to celebrate a successful trip of the day and you may not believe it, I like cold canned beer!

There were several question and recommendations regarding the route.
We only have a very rough route, and we don’t plan to take interstates, we prefer to drive on smaller roads but they should not be too steep. But you never now…. and we do not know the elevation profile

Plans may change

Here you could see our route, but that’s only a very very rough Orientation.
https://www.google.com/maps/dir/Milford ... m1!1b1!3e0

And we do not plan to take the short Canadian route from the falls to Detroit, as stated in the map, we plan to make the longer south of Erie Sea route.
Not only because of the covid 19 paper work

Regarding more details about our tour:
We have a schedule, but it could and will change, because we’ll decide for a better plan or our cars decide

that we should stay longer at a special or undefined place.
On Wednesday 8th we plan to see the Niagarafälle
0n Saturday 10th we plan to visit Ford Piquette Avenue Plant.
Ufortunately we won’t see the Richmond Museum, as we loose one day because we take the USA route from the falls to Detroit and the detour to Richmond would be to time intensive. I needed to come back… to visit it.

By the way, all of our cars have a Ruckstell rear end and for safety reasons Rocky Mountain brakes.

I will try to post our daily destinations and routes in advance, so there should be a chance for a short chat or even a longer break with kindred spirits.

Tomorrow we all need to get negative COVID 19 tests and we need to upload all the required data for our flights.

In 22 Hours we will be in the home country of our beloved Model Ts

CU Bernd Klingels
Kirchberg (Hunsrück)
Germany

Scott_Conger · Post by **Scott_Conger** » Mon May 30, 2022 5:56 pm

How exciting for you all!

I think you are going to be amazed at some of the vast open stretches you will encounter west of the Mississippi River...particularly Wyoming and Utah.

Post by **Oldav8tor** » Mon May 30, 2022 8:25 pm

As Scott said, you will be amazed at some of the west's "wide open spaces." You will be visiting some of those dry expanses during the hottest time of the year. Be sure to carry plenty of water (for you), as well as coolant for the cars. Sunscreen lotion will be very important. You will also be in the "high" country so be prepared for the need to adjust your carburetor fuel mixture accordingly.

Other Model T'ers have made the trip from coast to coast, you'll probably meet some of them on your journey and I'm sure they will have some advice for you.

When you get a chance, please post some photos of your cars.

Post by **Model T Steve** » Mon May 30, 2022 9:12 pm

The Ford Piquette Avenue Plant, birthplace of the Model T, would be happy to host a visit at our museum.

Simply let me know when you plan on visiting the Detroit area and I will be happy to lead your tour of Piquette.

We have so many outstanding visitation sites in Detroit. We can give you leadership and support in seeing as much as you would like.

Sincerely -

Steve Shotwell
Past-President, Ford Piquette Avenue Plant
2009 "Coast to Coast" co-organizer and participant

Post by **Steve Jelf** » Mon May 30, 2022 9:20 pm

Do not stop or break down in Gary, Indiana. I believe our friend Steve Jelf fought with a pothole there and the pothole won. Not a safe city.

Actually my passage through Gary was uneventful. It was a few miles farther on, in south Chicago, that I hit the giant pothole. It shut off the fuel supply valve so the engine died, but did no actual damage.

I agree with staying off the interstates. US highways and former US highways, on the other hand, are often ideal for Model T travel, especially where they run parallel to a nearby interstate.

On the left, I-44 in Missouri has plenty of fast traffic. On the right, I have clear sailing on the former US 66.

There are a lot of interesting places to see. One of the best is the Buffalo Bill Historical center in Cody, Wyoming. It's a national treasure. Also in Wyoming, the old mining town of South Pass City is worth a visit.

Norman Kling · Post by **Norman Kling** » Mon May 30, 2022 10:00 pm

There are also points of interest in Wyoming.
Custer's last Stand battleground is one. The Devil's tower where you might have a close encounter.
Grand Teton mountains, Yellowstone, Mt. Rushmore sculpture Crazy Horse sculpture And others. There is a great Auto museum in South Dakota.
Be prepared for high altitudes and grades where auxiliary transmission will make it easier to climb. Also Auxiliary brakes are good to have. The Rocky Mountains are quite high and also the Sierra Nevada Mountains. You will need to cross both ranges to get to San Francisco.
Norm

Post by **DHort** » Mon May 30, 2022 10:39 pm

Looking at your map I see three places that you HAVE to visit. Piquette, Henry Ford, and Speedway Motors.

Post by **TRDxB2** » Mon May 30, 2022 10:47 pm

I checked with Craig and your Welcome to stop & visit. I checked the route and you will be passing within a mile or two of the Craig's Museum.
In addition I have another friend that restores cars (currently has a Model S and also a Torpedo being worked on plus a Franklyn and Studebaker) and you will be passing his shop is on Highway 6. He is often out of Town but I will check with him as well. I will email you my cell phone so we can keep in touch when you are close. I can meet you at either place. Crossing over the Mississippi River at Muscatine Iowa is a good choice as is your route from Moline to it. There are several, 18, Breweries in the area https://qcaletrail.com/

--
--
How close your route is to them

Post by **NoelChico** » Mon May 30, 2022 11:26 pm

By all means, please keep us apprised of your route. On your way to Mt. Rushmore you will either come through Pierre, SD ( my current location) on Hwy 34 or take the more southern route through northern Nebraska. Either route as you leave easter South Dakota or Nebraska you may go 50 miles between towns. Housing might be difficult to obtain in the Black Hills of South Dakota due to the tourism, but if you are here between the national MTFCA or MTFCI tours (or after), we'd consider putting you up at our vacation home south of Deadwood. I don't know how long you plan for the cross country trip, but DON'T try to find lodging anywhere near Mt. Rushmore in early August due to 500,000+ motorcyclists converging on Sturgis.

Post by **DHort** » Tue May 31, 2022 12:46 am

I have driven Hwy 12 across lower Michigan in my Model T. Wish I could tell you what to do once you hit Indiana.

I do not think you will find anything steep until you get to South Dakota and maybe later than that.

A Whiteman · Post by **A Whiteman** » Tue May 31, 2022 5:55 am

Dear Bernhard

Greetings from New Zealand, as I am not likely to make a trip like yours, your pictures and comments on the trip are much anticipated.
I am looking forward to hearing and seeing what you experience as your journey

Keep safe

Adrian Whiteman

Post by **Mark Nunn** » Tue May 31, 2022 8:37 am

Your planned route takes you through Omaha Nebraska. Our Omaha Model T club has 33 members who would be ready if you need assistance.

Post by **Gene_French** » Tue May 31, 2022 10:15 am

Bernd:
welcome to the U.S. ... while we all hope you have a safe and mechanically uneventful trip , in the event you should need assistance please be assured that there are many Model T Ford Club of America members who are able to assist as needed and many who will offer hospitality ... enjoy your tour and if you are in the northern Colorado / southern Wyoming area and need any help , i offer my assistance ...always an optimist ...Gene French ( phone # 970-581-2808 )

Post by **MWalker** » Tue May 31, 2022 11:12 am

Frank Brandi's suggestion to visit Craig's museum in Moline is a great one. Craig has some amazing early T's. They will blow your minds. If you are anywhere near there, please take advantage of that offer. You will be glad you did. It's not open to the public; it's by invitation only.

Post by **Art M** » Tue May 31, 2022 1:17 pm

Unless you are going through Canada between Buffalo,NY and Detroit, you will be traveling near Sandusky,OH. There are many active model t owners in the area who have tools, parts, and experience to make repairs and are willing to help you. Besides, they would enjoy meeting you folks.

Art Mirtes

Post by **Art M** » Wed Jun 01, 2022 10:18 am

I just saw your map. You are going through Canada to go from Buffalo to Detroit. This is disappointing for us in northern Ohio.

Art Mirtes

CatGuy · Post by **CatGuy** » Wed Jun 01, 2022 10:22 am

Will you be on Facebook? Hope to see dates of when you might be in certain areas. It looks like you'll be a few miles south of me at one point and I might be able to get away to see the convoy.

Post by **Moxie26** » Wed Jun 01, 2022 10:49 am

Try this link... Model T Ford Club of Facebook

Post by **mbowen** » Wed Jun 01, 2022 11:10 am

Art M wrote: ↑
Wed Jun 01, 2022 10:18 am
I just saw your map. You are going through Canada to go from Buffalo to Detroit. This is disappointing for us in northern Ohio.

Art Mirtes

If you read all or Bernhard’s posts you’ll see that he said the map he posted has changed, and they will be routing south of Lake Erie.

Post by **FreighTer Jim** » Wed Jun 01, 2022 1:17 pm

CatGuy wrote: ↑
Wed Jun 01, 2022 10:22 am
Will you be on Facebook? Hope to see dates of when you might be in certain areas. It looks like you'll be a few miles south of me at one point and I might be able to get away to see the convoy.

He messaged me thru FB.
His FB profile:

@ https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100008197204645

FJ

schwabd1 · Post by **schwabd1** » Wed Jun 01, 2022 2:52 pm

Just a "heads up" on your route through northwest Ohio. You'll notice the route you have hilighted is marked Rt24, and there is another running parallel that's marked Rt 24. Starting in Waterville the one you have marked is the "old 24", which is now Rt 424, which is a nice somewhat winding drive along the river with little traffic. The "new 24" is a 4 lane 70 mile per hour limited access highway, Rt 424 runs from Waterville to Defiance on your map.

BernhardBK · Post by **BernhardBK** » Wed Jun 01, 2022 10:57 pm

Again many thanks for your support offers and recommendations.
We arrived today with the full group of 10 Ford Model T friends in Milford, PA.
It was a long day, we are all tired, and finally I could solve the eSim problems on my wife‘s and my own mobile phone.

We start our tour from Milford next Monday (we use the time for preparing/testing the cars and bringing back the rental bus to Newark with the Ts)
We should be in Frisco latest July 15th.
There won’t be time for larger detours, but I definitely will ask our Organizer of the tour Reiner for stops in Moline, Crazy Horse and the old mining town (your recommendations).
Piquette plant, Dearborn, Speedster hall, Gilmore museum had been in our program from the beginning.

And we will also be in Ohio and there near to Sandusky as we take the longer south route of the Lake Erie from the Niagarafälle to Detroit. Rt424 should be part of that.

I try to load up a very nice map created by Gerhard, one of the four other drivers.

At the weekend I will inform about the planed!! Dailey stages for the first two weeks and post pictures of the cars.

CU Bernd

Post by **Steve Jelf** » Thu Jun 02, 2022 1:33 am

Looks like you'll be taking US 50 through Carson City. Just a few miles north is Virginia City, home of the Bucket of Blood Saloon (since 1876) and other relics of the silver rush. It's worth the small detour if you have the time.

BernhardBK · Post by **BernhardBK** » Fri Jun 03, 2022 10:47 pm

After two long days of preparation (light, turn signal installation, maintenance,….) und repairing (stuck Ruckstell rear end,….) all five cars a ready for tomorrow’s trip to the East Coast.

Wayne Sheldon · Post by **Wayne Sheldon** » Sat Jun 04, 2022 4:24 am

I hope this becomes the MTFCA forum thread (or threads?) of the year! We all admire you and your friends for this endeavor and wish you many wonderful and memorable miles!
By the way, there are a bunch of model T folks around Auburn California where you should be crossing the Sierra Mountains nearing your final legs of the journey.

Post by **rmdpchester** » Sat Jun 04, 2022 9:36 am

Sent a note to one of your travelers on Facebook. As Mark Nunn said the Omaha, NE club is ready to offer whatever help we can on your journey through here. Please do let us here in Omaha know as you get closer. Several of our club members have expressed interest in meeting with you all for a meal, coffee, or cold canned beer.

We also have guys with tons of random parts if you find yourself needing something.

A recommendation as you get to Lincoln, NE, if your schedule allows, I recommend a stop at The Museum of American Speed. The Smith family have amassed quite the collection of cars including a very nice Model T collection. https://www.museumofamericanspeed.com/early-ford.html. Well worth a stop. I'm sure they'd get a kick out of having you visit.
Address: 599 Oakcreek Dr., Lincoln, NE 68528

Post by **DHort** » Sat Jun 04, 2022 9:09 pm

Raymond

They do plan on stopping at American Speed. Perhaps you could talk with them and arrange a behind the scenes tour for when they arrive. Great place.

BernhardBK · Post by **BernhardBK** » Sat Jun 04, 2022 11:08 pm

Today we had our dress rehearsal.
During the tour, we could solve 10 of 11 problems.
We could not expect that our old ladies of about 100 years would be ready for a Marathon after waiting for more than two years for us.

We recognized some additional issues which we are going to solve tomorrow or if Sunday is to short

on Monday.
Therefore I could not yet give you update about our schedule now.

But it’s amazing to read that so many Americans offer support or hospitality or give helpful advises.

Attached some photos of our cars from this morning at Dave gas station and antique autos shop in Milford, PA.
All 5 together will follow, when the tour begins.

CU Bernd

Post by **rmdpchester** » Sun Jun 05, 2022 10:28 am

DHort wrote: ↑
Sat Jun 04, 2022 9:09 pm
Raymond

They do plan on stopping at American Speed. Perhaps you could talk with them and arrange a behind the scenes tour for when they arrive. Great place.

Dave, That's awesome! Yes, I'll give the museum a call and see if they have a docent that can give them a personal tour of the place if timing works out for them. The docents are usually very flexible for scheduling and I'm sure many would jump at this chance. Regrettably, I just realized my wife and I are heading out of town on Saturday and I expect the group's timing will get them to Omaha and Lincoln sometime after we leave. Still, I'll try to make some connections for them.

Post by **rmdpchester** » Sun Jun 05, 2022 10:38 am

Bernd, We are excited to follow you on your journey. Not sure if you realize it, but there's a bit of history associated to your trip. This came across my Facebook feed this morning...on June 4th, 1924, "The 10,000,000th Ford Model T rolled off the assembly line. Famed Ford racing driver Frank Kulick drove it from New York to San Francisco on the Lincoln Highway, the only coast-to-coast highway at the time."
http://www.365daysofmotoring.com/onthis ... bbav1f1z2s.

Here's a 1916 version of that route https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lincoln_H ... Map-75.jpg

I thought the route seemed very close to your route!

Post by **George House** » Sun Jun 05, 2022 3:37 pm

Bernhardt, .....be advised we don’t have frequent bathroom exits along roads like your ‘Ausfahrt’ in Germany.

Post by **TWrenn** » Sun Jun 05, 2022 4:04 pm

George House wrote: ↑
Sun Jun 05, 2022 3:37 pm
Bernhardt, .....be advised we don’t have frequent bathroom exits along roads like your ‘Ausfahrt’ in Germany.

But you will be pleasantly surprised that our public restrooms are free! As I understand most if not all in Germany are "pay toilets"!

Your map above sure looks like you'll be within "walking distance" of Sandusky, Ohio, if not even going right through it via US. Rte 6. Hope to hear from you when you're near. Some of us will try to catch ya and cheer you on! Or have an ice cream cone with you at Toft Dairy, 3717 Venice Rd, Sandusky, OH which happens to also be U.S. Rte 6!!

Have a safe trip mein Freund!

Herb Iffrig · Post by **Herb Iffrig** » Sun Jun 05, 2022 4:31 pm

From looking at the map, it appears that you will be going close to MT. Pleasant Iowa. You might like visiting the Museum and grounds. The Old Threshers Show is right before Labor Day, but the grounds can still be a stopping place.

Post by **DHort** » Sun Jun 05, 2022 7:35 pm

Tim

All they have to know is every gas station and McDonalds has a free toilet.

I took my family to Germany over 10 years ago and I think most toilets were free. With 4 of us I would remember if I had to give the girls change for a toilet all day long. You just have to know where to stop.

I know Bernd mentioned Sandusky somewhere in this thread, but I doubt they are planning on hitting any roller coasters.

Post by **DLodge** » Mon Jun 06, 2022 8:57 am

BernhardBK wrote: ↑
Sat Jun 04, 2022 11:08 pm
But it’s amazing to read that so many Americans offer support or hospitality or give helpful advises.

Bernd, my theory is that we are closer in time to when the people settling the country began to move west, and depended on their neighbors or even strangers for help, and sometimes even their lives. That has resulted in an openness and helpfulness, probably more so in the Midwest and the West than in the East. That is also the reason, I think, that people will start a conversation with a complete stranger. (I lived in Paris for a year and in Holland for eight and a half years and no one started spontaneous conversations with strangers in either place.) If you speak English with an accent, be prepared to be asked where you are from.

One possible warning. (I say possible, because I don't know if it applies to Germans.) The Dutch seem to think that, when they are in the United States, Dutch is their secret language and no one around them understands what they are saying. I've had some fun with that. My Dutch is not native-fluent, but it's close, certainly close enough to understand a conversation. You never know who's listening. When my wife and I, along with her parents, were in Colorado once, we were in a store in Georgetown, a small town in the mountains. As we walked around the store, we were speaking Dutch. When we got to the cash register, the middle-aged man behind the counter wearing bib overalls asked if we were "Hollanders." When we said yes, he switched to Dutch and said, "I was born there, in Broek-in-Waterland." Be careful.

I'm sorry you're going to be too far north for me, but I wish you a great trip!

Scott_Conger · Post by **Scott_Conger** » Mon Jun 06, 2022 10:15 am

Bernhardt

despite possible conceptions of what the United States is like, particularly if you watch the news as it attempts to divide and break us, I expect that in reality, you will continue to find us to be a helpful and enthusiastic bunch as you travel through the country.

all the best and safe travels

Post by **JBog** » Mon Jun 06, 2022 12:04 pm

If your trip takes you through Cheyenne, Wyoming. Give me a shout! I would love to help you anyway I can. -Jason

BernhardBK · Post by **BernhardBK** » Tue Jun 07, 2022 12:10 am

Sunday wasn‘t long enough

We had to extend our preparation work, and that was a very good decision.
One of our cars had an engine damage and could not proceed.
But we are staying/working at Helms Antique Autos and one team could find a replacement car.
After a 50 miles final test drive, we decided to start our tour tomorrow. One day delayed but with five cars.
We still have issues with two other cars, one had five flat tires. But after dinner they changed not only the flat tubes but also the backend tires.
And my car has a crack in the water cover between 2nd and 3rd cylinder. Two times I tried to fix it with JP Weld…
Additionally I installed a water run way on the valve cover to prevent or reduce running water in the oil sump. Because of the welding it now is not exactly straight and some oil is leaking there. I will attach a picture.

Nevertheless we won’t finish our adventure before it began.
Tomorrow we will start!!!!

The first destination should be the Niagara Falls.
That could be a two day’s trip, but we never now.
We plan to stay in Ithaca, NY region.

Tomorrow in the evening I plan to finish the installation of the side curtains of our 1923 Touring, It will only be a provisional installation, as the lift-the-dot males are unexpectedly not in the frame.
But thunderstorms are expected.

Tomorrow I also plan to post photos of our 5 teams.

CU Bernd

BernhardBK · Post by **BernhardBK** » Tue Jun 07, 2022 12:13 am

And here is the picture of the valve cover

BernhardBK · Post by **BernhardBK** » Tue Jun 07, 2022 12:16 am

And here is the picture of the valve cover.
Sorry, doesn’t work with the upload

Post by **TRDxB2** » Tue Jun 07, 2022 12:36 am

BernhardBK wrote: ↑
Tue Jun 07, 2022 12:16 am
And here is the picture of the valve cover.
Sorry, doesn’t work with the upload

If you get a yellow triangle warning when loading the photo it is because it is to large and needs to be reduced. If you don't have such software you can email me your photos (emails have restriction for the total of all so just do 4 at a time till we see what you need to do) and I will load them for you send to f.brandi@mchsi.com

Post by **KBurket** » Tue Jun 07, 2022 1:01 am

I post from my iPhone and regularly get the yellow triangle failure to up load. I “edit” the photo, rotate it 90 degrees, save, edit again, rotate back to normal, save, then it always uploads without error.
Best regards for a fun and safe journey.

Wayne Sheldon · Post by **Wayne Sheldon** » Tue Jun 07, 2022 1:43 am

Dick Lodge's caution is worth repeating.

"One possible warning. (I say possible, because I don't know if it applies to Germans.) The Dutch seem to think that, when they are in the United States, Dutch is their secret language and no one around them understands what they are saying. I've had some fun with that. My Dutch is not native-fluent, but it's close, certainly close enough to understand a conversation. You never know who's listening. When my wife and I, along with her parents, were in Colorado once, we were in a store in Georgetown, a small town in the mountains. As we walked around the store, we were speaking Dutch. When we got to the cash register, the middle-aged man behind the counter wearing bib overalls asked if we were "Hollanders." When we said yes, he switched to Dutch and said, "I was born there, in Broek-in-Waterland." Be careful."

A fair number of people here do speak some amount of German (Why do silly Americans insist on calling it that wenn es ist Deutsch??).
I am not what I would consider fluent by any means. However I understand enough to have overheard a few interesting conversations over the years! And by the way, one of the most interesting were a couple of Dutch tourists.
I always enjoy talking with and listening to foreign tourists! I hope to be able to meet you when you pass through my area.

Post by **TRDxB2** » Tue Jun 07, 2022 7:42 pm

BernhardBK wrote: ↑
Tue Jun 07, 2022 12:16 am
And here is the picture of the valve cover.

Post by **dykker5502** » Tue Jun 07, 2022 8:31 pm

Bernhard, I will be following your endavour with great interest since a T-buddy and I are seriously considering a similar tour - probably in 2024.
I wonder - have you send over your cars from Germany? And will you then take them home as well afterwards? Our plans are to buy one in advance in the US and eventually take it back to Denmark.
Rough ideas is to start more eastern than you, namely in Masachusets in the city of Baldwinville where a well known "parts pusher" resides

and from Chicago, follow the historic Route 66 to LA. But why not take the tour back to the east coast by a more southern route?
We are both retired so no need to be back in any particular time frame

Post by **Steve Jelf** » Tue Jun 07, 2022 8:55 pm

And here is the picture of the valve cover.

That is seriously "customized".

BernhardBK · Post by **BernhardBK** » Tue Jun 07, 2022 11:40 pm

This morning, 7th June 2022, we started our tour at Helm Antique Autos in Milford, PA.

: Our 5 teams

We just driven 43 km.

: Stefan and Harald

: Heike and Reiner

: Stefan and Harald

: Otto and Peter

: Bernd and Heidi

But we only reached Hawley, PA.
The reason for that was the rear axle of the replacement car.
We had to remove it, repair/overhault it.
That took about 7 hours.
Photos will follow.

By the way: my 2nd JP Weld repair attempt failed. But the water run way of the valve cower seems to work.
And because the valve cover isn’t plain after welding, the car looses oil.

CU Bernd

BernhardBK · Post by **BernhardBK** » Tue Jun 07, 2022 11:48 pm

Overhauling rear axle in Delaware state forest

BernhardBK · Post by **BernhardBK** » Tue Jun 07, 2022 11:56 pm

Overhauling rear axle in Delaware state forest

Post by **TRDxB2** » Wed Jun 08, 2022 12:13 am

Your are missing a photo of one team, you have Stefan and Harald twice -
Also you can only post 5 photos in one post. Just start another like you have done

Flivver · Post by **Flivver** » Wed Jun 08, 2022 7:30 am

I am publishing a daily progress map for this epic adventure. Video clips, when available too. Here is the map for Day 1.

BernhardBK · Post by **BernhardBK** » Wed Jun 08, 2022 7:51 am

Here is the missing team
Silvia and Gerhard

BernhardBK · Post by **BernhardBK** » Wed Jun 08, 2022 7:54 am

: Silvia and Gerhard

BernhardBK · Post by **BernhardBK** » Wed Jun 08, 2022 8:08 am

The repair did only work, because we received support and tools by Robert and the Ranger of Daleware State Forest.
And I learnt, that it is helpful to contact local people to find an affordable accommodation, Robert’s son did some phone calls and we had a very nice motel in Harley, PA.

: At the left Robert and his Son

BernhardBK · Post by **BernhardBK** » Wed Jun 08, 2022 8:13 am

We stayed this night in Wilsonville, we should reach Hawley soon

Post by **TWrenn** » Wed Jun 08, 2022 8:36 am

Now THAT is "living the Model T life/dream"!! Roadside repair at it's finest and utmost. Doesn't really get any better let alone authentic than that. Think of how many folks did the same thing back in the day. You guys are great!

Post by **FreighTer Jim** » Wed Jun 08, 2022 8:38 am

Bernhard

When you messaged me in advance of
your trip - I gave you specific advice.

I also recommended you have a detailed
discussion with Dean Yoder who has the single
most first hand experience traveling the
United States in a Model T vehicle.

With as much experience as he has ….
Things still go awry and the unexpected
can become the norm when you drive a Model T.

That - is why you must plan accordingly
when undertaking an extended road trip.

Ironically Dean is dealing with mechanical
issue at the same time as your group ….

Perhaps now you can realize the value in having
at least one member of your group having a
cell phone with a US phone number that has free
unlimited text and data as well as voice coverage.

Perhaps you can also see the value of having
a trouble truck and trailer shadow you on your route
or at least have an escort vehicle follow you.

Perhaps your group can take time to discuss
your itenerary and your strategy for the days
to follow.

Best Of Luck

FJ

Bill Coyle · Post by **Bill Coyle** » Wed Jun 08, 2022 11:04 am

Wishing you good luck! Just curious... what was wrong with the rear axle on the red coupe that forced you to overhaul it? Thanks Bill

Post by **TRDxB2** » Wed Jun 08, 2022 11:17 am

BernhardBK wrote: ↑
Wed Jun 08, 2022 8:13 am
We stayed this night in Wilsonville, we should reach Hawley soon

When you get near or into the Finger Lakes Region of New York you will be in New York's wine country almost all the way to Niagara Falls, much like the South West part of Germany. Expect delays

The same will be true, to a lesser extent, when you leave Niagara Falls till you get to Ohio
Watkins Glen on the south end of Seneca Lake is a noted Sports Car racing area

--
--
I don't know if any of you group have been to Niagara Falls. One Interesting place to walk to is the Three Sister Islands, from there you can look up the river and see the dramatic change in elevation. You must take a ride on Maid of The Mist (very refreshing). Cave of the winds isn't much of thrill takes to you to the bottom of the Bridal Vail Falls. The best view of everything is from the Canadian side to see Horseshoe Falls

Post by **stevev** » Wed Jun 08, 2022 12:06 pm

Coast to Coast I saw on your map you are planning to be in Northern California toward the end of your trip. The Redwood Empire Model T Club would like to meet up with you when you are in the area. Please give me some idea on when you think you would be in the area and if you would be interested in a joint event.

BernhardBK · Post by **BernhardBK** » Wed Jun 08, 2022 11:22 pm

The second day, 8th June 2022, was very successful, we started in Wilsonville and went to Geneva,NY.
The route was very challenging, but all T‘s drove great, even at extrem climbs.
We had 2 ignition issues at Gerhard‘s car, Harald had to use his spare tank to help his T to climb up a very extreme incline. And my car did not start well, when the engine was cold.

I have driven 289 km today.

Sorry for late reply to your posts.
My days are to short to answer to all.

We do not plan to have a towing car with us, if we need one, we should find a solution.

We should arrive in the week of 10th July in Frisco.

Tomorrow we are going to the Niagra falls.
Then we take the south route of Lake Ontario to get to Piquette plant.

Update should follow tomorrow!

BernhardBK · Post by **BernhardBK** » Wed Jun 08, 2022 11:33 pm

Regarding the Niagra Falls:
We could not go to the Canadian side.
Thanks for the advices regarding the Falls

Playswithbrass · Post by **Playswithbrass** » Thu Jun 09, 2022 7:55 am

Lake Erie I think!

Post by **Dennis Prince** » Thu Jun 09, 2022 10:21 am

Bernhard, To seal up the crack in the engine stop at the grocery store and get a bottle of ground ginger, mix it with some water or antifreeze and pour it into the radiator once the system is circulating and that will seal the leak. Have a grand adventure.

Flivver · Post by **Flivver** » Thu Jun 09, 2022 10:28 am

BernhardBK · Post by **BernhardBK** » Thu Jun 09, 2022 12:51 pm

Could someone offer a facility to do an oil change in a try garage in th north of Buffalo this afternoon?
We are staying in Tonawanda

Post by **TRDxB2** » Thu Jun 09, 2022 1:46 pm

BernhardBK wrote: ↑
Thu Jun 09, 2022 12:51 pm
Could someone offer a facility to do an oil change in a try garage in th north of Buffalo this afternoon?
We are staying in Tonawanda

I have no personal contact with any oil service in the area. But I would suggest a place that just does lubrication (oil changes etc). They are usually not busy. IGoogle Tonawanda oil change and looking at reviews a few places look promising. https://www.google.com/search?q=Tonawanda+oil+change

In no particular order
Auto World Service, 158 Sweeney St, North Tonawanda, NY 14120
Lube N Go, 27 E Oliver St, North Tonawanda, NY 14120
Valvoline Instant Oil Change 2130 Niagara Falls Blvd, Tonawanda, NY 14150
Valvoline Instant Oil Chang 3480 delaware avenue tonawanda, NY 14217
Kings Total Car Car 3781 Delaware Ave Tonawanda, NY

Post by **DHort** » Thu Jun 09, 2022 2:04 pm

Bernhard. I would go to the closest Ford dealer and get your oil changed. Tell them you are crossing rhe country and I am sure they will do it at a reduced price. The publicity is good for them. I am not sure if they can let you do it yourself, but give it a try. Then the oil can be disposed of there.

perry kete · Post by **perry kete** » Thu Jun 09, 2022 2:23 pm

Ford dealers near Niagara Falls:

West Herr Ford
Gatzville NY
716-810-1319
closes 7 pm

Basil Ford of Niagara
Niagara Falls
716-693-1400
closes 8 pm

Basil Ford
Cheektowaga
716-893-1000
Closes 7 pm

perry kete · Post by **perry kete** » Thu Jun 09, 2022 5:00 pm

What is your route through Northeast Ohio?
Do you have highway names or Route numbers?
Do you have an aproximate day you would be in Northeast Ohio?

Post by **Oldav8tor** » Thu Jun 09, 2022 6:16 pm

Please post when you think you'll reach the Piquette plant. There are a number of SE Michigan Model T'ers who would like to welcome you.

BernhardBK · Post by **BernhardBK** » Thu Jun 09, 2022 10:33 pm

Third driving day, 9th June 2022, is over.
We made about 111 miles from Geneva to Buffalo, NY.
The day started bad, heavy rain and my T did not want to start. But after the third round around the Hotel on the tow behind Harald Roaster it started. But with dramatic noises, miss firing and fire coming out of the exhaust pipe.
I have a video of it, but that is to large to upload here.
It’s unbelievable!
When I wanted to remove the lid of coil box, I got an electrical shock. I removed it, exchanged coil 4 and also spark plug four. Then the war worked again.
We started with a delay of nearly an hour.
And after a view miles my Touring was running great again.
But the rain was a pain for us. Not because we drove a Touring, no I had installed side curtains, which a good friend of mine created. The reason had been the leaks in the two parts of the front screen.
This evening I bought silicone to solve this problem.
Because of the weather we decided not to go to the falls today. Today should have been a cloth washing and maintenance day.
To make a long story short. The cloth are washed, and during the waiting time for the ladies and the cloth, I checked serval things on the car. The we had to buy something and went to dinner.
There was no time for the planned oil change, but thanks a lot for the recommendations.
Furthermore one car had an issue with loose spokes, they could repair it, but they will get working wheels after we visit the Piquette Plant.

Tomorrow in the morning we will be at the Falls, in the afternoon we will drive to the West.
The day after Tomorrow we should be in East Ohio.
The wife of our organiser is our navigator. She is doing a great job. No interstate and only smaller high way/streets.
I will asked her, for the planned route.

I think, there are some questions not answered by me.
Sorry for that, but the time is to short. We need to get up every morning at 6.00 …

Regarding the problem of the rear axle, the brass discs were missing, not uncommon but hard if you recognise it in a forest.

Regarding my engine water cover leak: I decided to wait for a stopping by oxidation to close the leak, the risk that bar leaks closes the waterways in the radiator is too high for me.

Playswithbrass · Post by **Playswithbrass** » Fri Jun 10, 2022 7:37 am

See if an auto supply store has this
Rislone Block seal
Can’t get the photo loaded yet

Playswithbrass · Post by **Playswithbrass** » Fri Jun 10, 2022 7:45 am

Post by **Oldav8tor** » Fri Jun 10, 2022 11:21 am

For the rain leaking between the windshield halves I run a piece of wide vinyl tape across the seam...wide masking tape (blue kind) works too. Later you can remove it if you want the windshield down for more ventilation.

Flivver · Post by **Flivver** » Fri Jun 10, 2022 12:14 pm

BernhardBK · Post by **BernhardBK** » Fri Jun 10, 2022 3:53 pm

Just an update regarding the route,
we followed US 5 and some smaller streets following to the west

Post by **TWrenn** » Fri Jun 10, 2022 4:05 pm

Correct me if I'm wrong, but the US 5 that I saw is a North/South route through Vermont down to Massachussets, etc. Did you maybe mean either Rte 2 or Rte 6?

perry kete · Post by **perry kete** » Fri Jun 10, 2022 5:00 pm

Route 20 runs east and west through Ashtabula, Geneva, Madison, and Perry. If it is Route 20 just west of Perry it changes from a two lane road to a four lane high speed highway and is listed as Route 2 and it joins interstate 90 which is a 4 lane high speed highway through Cleveland NOT MODEL T USEABLE.

If you are near Ashtabula you are only a few miles from Jefferson Ohio where I live and if you haven't changed oil you can use my garage to do so.

Post by **Art M** » Fri Jun 10, 2022 5:42 pm

There is a rt. 5 that runs from Buffalo NY to near Ashtabula.
I think this is the one they are referring to.

Art Mirtes

BernhardBK · Post by **BernhardBK** » Fri Jun 10, 2022 6:10 pm

Art, you are right, 5 will end and it’s then 20. 531 seems to be better for us.
Today was the first day without repair stop or delayed start. My car started and ran very good, the others Ts as well.
But the issue with Harald rear spokes seems to be dangerous. We will try another repair job, but we fear that especially the left rear wheel could break down because of the loose spokes.

Therefore we need to buy two wooden rear wheels as soon as possible (we shouldn’t wait for the two which we will get near the Gilmore Museum). His car is a 1915 Roadster, but wooden spoke wheels at least up to 1923 should work.

This night we stay in Erie, tomorrow we drive west, smaller roads, maybe 531, and than in the direction of Detroit.

On Sunday early morning we plan to visit the Piquette Plant.

Hopefully somebody could offer 2 wheels to buy

Thanks a lot.

CU Bernd

perry kete · Post by **perry kete** » Fri Jun 10, 2022 6:21 pm

Route 531 runs next to lake Erie and you will see the lake from time to time as you drive...nice view. Expect delays near Conneaut on Route 20 for highway paving and construction. Just be sure to stay on 20 after Perry Ohio because if you get on Route 2 you will soon be on a 4 lane highway.

Post by **TWrenn** » Fri Jun 10, 2022 6:30 pm

Bernd...
I don't want to be negative, but when it comes to Model T wheels, they are mostly obtained by taking the suspect wheel(s) into a Wheelwright, such as Stutzmans in Baltic Ohio. Highly unlikely to find wheels "over the counter" or "off the shelf". Doubt even the museum can help, unless you've been lucky enough to ascertain that from them. Just saying. Otherwise maybe someone along the way would have one or two to loan you. If I did I would. Sounds like they are non-demountable if for a '15? But some have demountables, and that can make a difference. Good luck, be safe, don't take chances.

BernhardBK · Post by **BernhardBK** » Fri Jun 10, 2022 7:12 pm

Harald needs demountable wheels,
we know, it’s not easy to get them, he will get two after about 400 miles, but we are not sure that they last

Wayne Sheldon · Post by **Wayne Sheldon** » Fri Jun 10, 2022 7:46 pm

I wish I was close by. In an hour I could have the wheel apart, shimmed and tightened up good for at least a thousand miles! Not pretty, not permanent, but at least safe for awhile.

Thread heading to page two!

Post by **Art M** » Fri Jun 10, 2022 7:47 pm

You are planning to visit the piquette Plant on Sunday morning. Keep in mind that the distance from Erie,PA to the piquette Plant is about 279 miles or about 420 kilometers. And that's taking the direct and busy highways.

Art Mirtes