tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-44086754448368915582024-03-14T04:00:29.964-05:001979 Clenet Series I, Car #229A 29-year odyssey is suddenly realized.Ronhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06836828895863532196noreply@blogger.comBlogger64125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4408675444836891558.post-46285857965769917772010-09-26T20:01:00.003-05:002010-09-26T20:08:41.844-05:00Everything Else is Just Traffic...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgih0azH21YKbkQMomoF8Duj1b_C79SRNcrIAETfBlGHvCysTIy3cX5EK3B2pYvYBRd0169qdjxi4rlJI_EuoCeykArDh0aen_uMXlZv8iKEQHEt3CNjQtAzz0z4k9LjkIiPsZOUG2X8uNd/s1600/200+and+229.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="196" px="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgih0azH21YKbkQMomoF8Duj1b_C79SRNcrIAETfBlGHvCysTIy3cX5EK3B2pYvYBRd0169qdjxi4rlJI_EuoCeykArDh0aen_uMXlZv8iKEQHEt3CNjQtAzz0z4k9LjkIiPsZOUG2X8uNd/s320/200+and+229.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeV1lqfuT2OLFCFS4sR3NSxvYyyFM6qesTVz4Tl15fIxhDxQU4KYp9zBZHy0BSt63GL_CTGDwP-Pi9tCtfeRJrP-GneCcvWgx0AEJwVhkD4I8y6B5V5lFoXNsfXC4pjDh_AfsIzQ5ybLEl/s1600/S1-200+460+engine.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" px="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeV1lqfuT2OLFCFS4sR3NSxvYyyFM6qesTVz4Tl15fIxhDxQU4KYp9zBZHy0BSt63GL_CTGDwP-Pi9tCtfeRJrP-GneCcvWgx0AEJwVhkD4I8y6B5V5lFoXNsfXC4pjDh_AfsIzQ5ybLEl/s320/S1-200+460+engine.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>Mario and I were invited to meet the owner of Clenet S-1 #200, owned by David DeClerck here in Michigan. While showing our car at Detroit 2010 back in August, a member of the Detroit region inquired about the Clenet and asked questions about the make/brand.<br />
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A few weeks afterwards I received an e-mail or a call from the guy who asked my advice on acquiring a Clenet. I always enjoy conversations about the car and must have stayed on the phone with Bob for quite some time. During the conversation, I walked him through the many ways I utilize the Internet to find what I'm looking for. We entered many different search queries to try and find any available Series I Clenet Roadsters that might be for sale. There are a few available, mostly in the Southern California area, however they're not the color combination Bob is looking for. Bob thinks the car would look gorgeous in black.<br />
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I directed Bob to both of the Clenet enthusiast websites where he picked out a few he liked, including #200 that is about an hour's drive from Bob's home...and clear across the state from me!<br />
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Bob put the Internet to task and searched every person with the matching name of the listed owner of car #200 and called him to inquire if he would be willing to sell his car. Mario too phoned Dave a few years ago just after we agreed to purchase our car, #229 while it was being shipped to us from Texas. We needed to learn about correct tire size among some other information in order to get some parts ordered to ensure the local Ford dealer would have the correct stock when our car arrived. Dave was more than generous with his time and spoke to Mario in detail about his car. Mario was very eager to learn of the modifications Dave made to his car.<br />
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Fast forward to late September when Bob called me to say that he and Dave have opened a dialogue regarding Dave's car. Bob e-mailed some pix of car #200 and told me that he would be seeing the car soon. The owner, Dave also invited Mario and I through Bob to come see the car. We were able to sync our schedules as this would be an all-day event for Mario and I. Mario and I agreed to drive our Clenet the 250+ miles and met Bob at Dave's on what turned out to become a nice day.<br />
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After exchanging our introductions, we immediately focused our attention on both Dave's and our Clenet, walking back and forth between the two cars. Dave's car is one of four S-1 Clenet Roadsters that came from Dave's father's estate. After acquiring the car and noticing the anemic performance, Dave was compelled to swap out the 351M that was coupled to the Ford FMX transmission. In its place now sits a Ford 460-4 barrel with a C6 transmission and posi-traction rear end. <br />
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Dave offered us a test drive in his Clenet and of course we accepted. First it was Mario and Bob who were out for at least a half hour. Shortly afterwards, I took my turn behind the wheel with Mario as co-pilot. Dave's car is a screamer to say the least. He wanted performance and<em> </em>I can assure that he succeeded. The front plate of Dave's car reads "Everything Else is Just Traffic!" And couldn't be more accurate!<br />
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We spent a good 2-1/2 hours with Bob at Dave's home, learning about the history of Dave's car. If Dave can let his car go to a new home, I'm sure Bob would be an excellent candidate to become the next care-taker of #200.Ronhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06836828895863532196noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4408675444836891558.post-49564796467501486252010-09-20T11:27:00.000-05:002010-09-20T11:27:23.253-05:00There's Something About Saugatuck<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLxmtlxloRDXBY8jLETCWRYqpt7C0JwwsCv_vJTYj8DxO7u6tIlRgLvpgUU6wEUPdH7pBaOTzvo-ChM9_g86w4tz6EkpyPnbaFmUAOHyUM7anket0BBmWZVp2oJMhSbrD8_zDk9307f5rj/s1600/Oval+Beach.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" qx="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLxmtlxloRDXBY8jLETCWRYqpt7C0JwwsCv_vJTYj8DxO7u6tIlRgLvpgUU6wEUPdH7pBaOTzvo-ChM9_g86w4tz6EkpyPnbaFmUAOHyUM7anket0BBmWZVp2oJMhSbrD8_zDk9307f5rj/s320/Oval+Beach.jpg" /></a>We enjoyed a short weekend get-away in Saugatuck, Michigan and participated in the late-summer annual car show hosted by the Michiana Dunes region of the Lambda Car Club. Mario drove our 1967 Cadillac Fleetwood Brougham while I drove our Clenet.<br />
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The Michiana Dunes region did a great job hosting about 200 guys at the Douglas Dunes resort hotel with about 100 cars being shown. The Friday evening welcoming reception held at the Saugatuck Arts Center was the perfect venue, offering ample room for our cars outside and a very interesting display of vintage paintings of the Saugatuck & Douglas landscape within the gallery. While the reception held indoors was a private affair, our cars parked outside were enough a public spectacle that lured onlookers to mill about the display.<br />
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The Saturday morning wash and shine was almost washed-out with two storm fronts that moved through the area before the scheduled 2PM car show. The rain stopped just past noon, giving us just enough time to dry the cars for the car show. I paid attention to the Clenet while Mario spent his time on Priscilla, our Cadillac.<br />
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The show ended at 4PM with the awards banquet starting rather early at 5:30PM. This would allow enough time for everyone to participate in the sunset taillight cruise over to Oval Beach, overlooking Lake Michigan. Most everyone drove their cars in caravan from the Douglas Dunes to Oval Beach. While there wasn't any rain, the clouds kept us from enjoying a one of Michigan's most wonderful sights...the sun setting over Lake Michigan.<br />
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</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">While the remaining daylight slowly faded to dusk, we enjoyed music, banter and the glow of the taillights with the cars parked along the lakeshore.</div>Ronhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06836828895863532196noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4408675444836891558.post-86994028341237346462010-09-11T17:20:00.000-05:002010-09-11T17:20:13.339-05:00<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgINhOtVwZJKb7wEuiVWF7nSdUJcMDLTTKFFuC8iH1ybn3e3euetrgogupAErBpvpco494yndAaCjQtL44vbrlnu4Ei0fB18qS6mn9KMHyB5ex7ZNZ3Sn5z32pgG_LENP3m8rhYPUSa4X1S/s1600/Flag.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" ox="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgINhOtVwZJKb7wEuiVWF7nSdUJcMDLTTKFFuC8iH1ybn3e3euetrgogupAErBpvpco494yndAaCjQtL44vbrlnu4Ei0fB18qS6mn9KMHyB5ex7ZNZ3Sn5z32pgG_LENP3m8rhYPUSa4X1S/s320/Flag.jpg" /></a></div><br />
Tuesday, September 11, 2001 had begun as any other late summer/early fall day in Chicago. Clear and brisk with the remnants of the morning dew evaporating into what would have been a spectacular warm and sunny day. I had just purchased and moved into my two-flat the weekend prior and felt great about my new home and neighborhood.<br />
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I left my Lincoln Square home at 6:45 a.m. and headed north to Glencoe, IL instead of downtown Chicago where my offices were located. My photo crew and I were to start one of our typical location photo-shoots at a private residence for our client, Spiegel Catalog. Being the producer of the shoot, I like to be the first to arrive at the location. Knowing that I wasn't in any rush, I followed surface streets instead of the expressway from the north side of Chicago and into the suburbs. The convertible top of my Mercedes 560SL Roadster was lowered as I motored along, stopping at a local coffee shop midway to my destination.<br />
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The weather was wonderful and I was feeling good that my client chose a local home to use for the shoot as I absolutely love being in the Midwest for these crisp late-summer days. I arrived at the home and met with the homeowners who were eager to host a commercial photo-shoot. I went into "Ron, the producer" mode and walked about their home detailing the progression of our shooting schedule. These photo-shoots can be a very high-energy process with many people on and off set getting merchandise, props and equipment ready for several vignettes simultaneously.<br />
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Everything was going smoothly as my photographer and client set up the first shot of the day. As the crew was making decisions on lighting and props, the homeowner hurried into the kitchen where we were shooting and turned on the small counter-top television. She exclaimed that a small plane had just hit one of the WTC towers. We immediately focused on that small screen showing a live-feed of the towers.<br />
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We needed to continue with our work and did, but the photo-shoot didn’t have the same energy. The crew was functioning; however we all seemed to be somewhat in a trance, on auto-pilot. At one point I needed to run an errand to a local hardware store for some rigging supplies. While there I found ribbon in red, white and blue and crafted small tassels that I attached to every car antenna.<br />
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Returning home to Chicago later that evening as the sun was setting, I found my American flag and mounted it from a 2nd story window frame out front. I then placed several candles on the front porch, just as other neighbors did. I don’t believe I slept an hour that night, glued to the television and making phone calls to ensure everyone I knew in New York were safe.<br />
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The world changed as we knew it.Ronhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06836828895863532196noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4408675444836891558.post-21627880227697620432010-08-02T18:28:00.002-05:002010-08-03T09:27:38.987-05:00Motown 2010 - LCC International Invitational<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDc7BRpR_5Rl2LffIVGssvMZnkzUtOW9i2HplM-yoa6EDIXdodvIzvM-iJK-v8D15ps6cRw2npPqddZMzdts8sBOI0ozlnDA8U8D3c13OKs-Gsix-sfhlvngLA8GKwXM4WtQl7ON7I-0WT/s1600/Shag.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" bx="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDc7BRpR_5Rl2LffIVGssvMZnkzUtOW9i2HplM-yoa6EDIXdodvIzvM-iJK-v8D15ps6cRw2npPqddZMzdts8sBOI0ozlnDA8U8D3c13OKs-Gsix-sfhlvngLA8GKwXM4WtQl7ON7I-0WT/s320/Shag.JPG" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXMrG7yLhMX9TrkMt3ZZZLKpS_hF3M5YQ7FYceb9zBvMdV4rTTdSE-SXEVPCiIu92Koqarq3P_6pYaI7DZzH-iyKsyTXr_ad36ctry6JGAhDr2_X2WAzWFoMO6og-kV72gm8fmR-klOQGv/s1600/CIMG0137.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" bx="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXMrG7yLhMX9TrkMt3ZZZLKpS_hF3M5YQ7FYceb9zBvMdV4rTTdSE-SXEVPCiIu92Koqarq3P_6pYaI7DZzH-iyKsyTXr_ad36ctry6JGAhDr2_X2WAzWFoMO6og-kV72gm8fmR-klOQGv/s320/CIMG0137.JPG" /></a></div>I just returned from Detroit after spending three days with friends from all over the country while attending the Lambda Car Club's 2010 International Invitational - Motown 2010. The Detroit guys did a wonderful job planning the week-long schedule of events, giving participants many activities to enjoy.<br />
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There were many automobile related tours that included the Walter P. Chrysler Museum, General Motors Heritage Center, Henry Ford Museum & Greenfield Village and a Ford Rouge Plant Factory tour to name a few. A four-hour dinner cruise aboard the Ovation Yacht was one of many planned meals for the group of 400 club members.<br />
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Mario and I couldn't attend the entire week, electing to drive from New Buffalo mid-day Thursday and meet up with friends for dinner in Dearborn near the Fairlane Hyatt. We arrived and settled into the room and quickly made plans to have dinner at a local pub known for their burgers. Kevin gladly drove us in his '02 Camaro RS convertible.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCVI8Brjp9UwFll8vasubt19rwiMvJ5hB9T7lPCG2YP13tYEZf3zPSWnh8zGWjfXawgkzPpoka_uhPjmOhjcQRKBTM3ynSeWUi03B5wZEON8dE_6YxmSOWhUJOvQLSfJRwu-c0jBPXyLIW/s1600/Detroit+Cemetery.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" bx="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCVI8Brjp9UwFll8vasubt19rwiMvJ5hB9T7lPCG2YP13tYEZf3zPSWnh8zGWjfXawgkzPpoka_uhPjmOhjcQRKBTM3ynSeWUi03B5wZEON8dE_6YxmSOWhUJOvQLSfJRwu-c0jBPXyLIW/s320/Detroit+Cemetery.jpg" /></a></div>Friday morning offered a very interesting cemetery tour through many cemeteries to hunt down the final resting places of many notable Auto Barron's of Detroit fame. Jeff and I drove the Clenet, giving Jeff many opportunities to take pics of the car among the granite and marble headstones. We ducked out of the cemetery crawl midway, giving us the opportunity to meet with Mario for a late lunch at Cheli's chili bar and restaurant, owned by Chris Chellios.<br />
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Friday evening we enjoyed a tour of the Piquette Avenue Ford plant, the very first Ford assembly plant now being used as a museum and cultural center in homage to the Model T.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEit1n6KBH5ESGotz9QjyXqI-qVgowqwwM_62ZoTDS7f0RcLc5d7beTLWTuwdrpbJE7EUv7ynBANtkZsbyH_T3-5TjTjBmarcGisnLLQ8FWBRUE9OLJwXdHxi1sIFqB2lNBk3yfSKmY-tJQH/s1600/CIMG0139.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" bx="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEit1n6KBH5ESGotz9QjyXqI-qVgowqwwM_62ZoTDS7f0RcLc5d7beTLWTuwdrpbJE7EUv7ynBANtkZsbyH_T3-5TjTjBmarcGisnLLQ8FWBRUE9OLJwXdHxi1sIFqB2lNBk3yfSKmY-tJQH/s320/CIMG0139.JPG" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfl8MQ2lZdyn9TV4Wm2c8wEBheQWl3qsRbOmOo9efUbt2JyPMM4nmg5nrICgeYg6t-NrHSeIdbzJwzqT5N6LPM0xUYUab7XicXA18DVhWfCT2oHd9Ga0VKTYb6Nh4ySb0WNrxURHbtvuym/s1600/CIMG0142.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" bx="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfl8MQ2lZdyn9TV4Wm2c8wEBheQWl3qsRbOmOo9efUbt2JyPMM4nmg5nrICgeYg6t-NrHSeIdbzJwzqT5N6LPM0xUYUab7XicXA18DVhWfCT2oHd9Ga0VKTYb6Nh4ySb0WNrxURHbtvuym/s320/CIMG0142.JPG" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjv6n6sYs8RgQYul06uEtCvhe1zaxiCLkQevPBJRAozy79crPVGQPrqLuifZmjYaamCU7_VwEm7asHb11EWXXyJdvYtf0DkscBS-1hvz08FgXsHZslCdQeQZlUOEsO1_Ov2EOt6wZFMbWkt/s1600/CIMG0138.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" bx="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjv6n6sYs8RgQYul06uEtCvhe1zaxiCLkQevPBJRAozy79crPVGQPrqLuifZmjYaamCU7_VwEm7asHb11EWXXyJdvYtf0DkscBS-1hvz08FgXsHZslCdQeQZlUOEsO1_Ov2EOt6wZFMbWkt/s320/CIMG0138.JPG" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-W5N2CAGJdjkIV3YHUC6kB33picnKnra8UvHxmtegSqOGIU39bXGnweAVgDmr-8Qk7hPzkBq4xCbOe2h08-JwFp9XgT9F2E_qGBssqzYt0CvjFTNW59EXCujo_-jEznUFMGMRScWQdMC6/s1600/CIMG0144.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" bx="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-W5N2CAGJdjkIV3YHUC6kB33picnKnra8UvHxmtegSqOGIU39bXGnweAVgDmr-8Qk7hPzkBq4xCbOe2h08-JwFp9XgT9F2E_qGBssqzYt0CvjFTNW59EXCujo_-jEznUFMGMRScWQdMC6/s320/CIMG0144.JPG" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPNV7zqjHfGhw49GzW0exSEJIwLQg5VLf5DhN3QRRD5boQbyUkLR0vRRyUuqhqHYFb_PtSFsXSwJHRGFjeZcnUQs-jeUi_BGMMamvN7Mqs17odQJaYfUpXszPFVLXjYlGVzZ2-G8snW52V/s1600/CIMG0146.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" bx="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPNV7zqjHfGhw49GzW0exSEJIwLQg5VLf5DhN3QRRD5boQbyUkLR0vRRyUuqhqHYFb_PtSFsXSwJHRGFjeZcnUQs-jeUi_BGMMamvN7Mqs17odQJaYfUpXszPFVLXjYlGVzZ2-G8snW52V/s320/CIMG0146.JPG" /></a></div>Saturday was the big day for our car show and awards banquette later in the evening. The morning started at 8:00 where I began to give the Clenet a good washing for the show. Jeff came down to the parking lot wash facilities and gave a much-needed hand. Jeff is now Executive Vice President of detailing chrome super-charger side pipes. Mario later joined in to work on a new front license plate framed Clenet logo along with repairing the deck lid gas-strut.<br />
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After the cleaning and minor repair, I drove the Clenet into the designated space and enjoyed the many cars on display. Mario then left early, getting back to Three Oaks where he had promised to volunteer for the evening. Jeff and I met back at the dinner & awards banquet in the hotel's Grand Ballroom where several very deserving cars received awards.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkgu_8fTmSBLjccsRBktdq6YNatQo7j4LZLHR2sLsxOdiHkjhgVBEdBU9oObd_2NaHyJeOBX9RiskOK50NpPL4EzTG_ZdIqcL2UGLqF3J3_zeDFSCKIqemg4yrqCmRn6p2q6YQ9ZUln-Wg/s1600/CIMG0156.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" bx="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkgu_8fTmSBLjccsRBktdq6YNatQo7j4LZLHR2sLsxOdiHkjhgVBEdBU9oObd_2NaHyJeOBX9RiskOK50NpPL4EzTG_ZdIqcL2UGLqF3J3_zeDFSCKIqemg4yrqCmRn6p2q6YQ9ZUln-Wg/s320/CIMG0156.JPG" /></a></div>Jeff and I again jumped into the Clenet to get breakfast and a very impromptu photo-shoot of the Clenet receiving an imaginary parking ticket written for a 1929 Duesenberg. Of course the meter maid didn't realize I drive a Clenet Continental! The Sunday morning traffic was light, making my solo-drive home enjoyable and rather delightful.Ronhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06836828895863532196noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4408675444836891558.post-16417535322140587352010-06-13T22:46:00.000-05:002010-06-13T22:46:15.654-05:00Perfect Day for a Parade<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEje1ygtLFfeVpB2VZbJs174qX7eOeN9IkDG-AqPbpqJEmYYh3gQkor0sOXt7ClkeOqtOv-vDZKzcUBDLjminj-aK41WwAhH0e8cl43cQNI0Jd1uQ032UoYrb3tlroBOJAiTBSIV57iYwTo3/s1600/Ready+for+the+Parade.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" qu="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEje1ygtLFfeVpB2VZbJs174qX7eOeN9IkDG-AqPbpqJEmYYh3gQkor0sOXt7ClkeOqtOv-vDZKzcUBDLjminj-aK41WwAhH0e8cl43cQNI0Jd1uQ032UoYrb3tlroBOJAiTBSIV57iYwTo3/s320/Ready+for+the+Parade.JPG" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNzRxvnaYUSWisZM7fLoJXEWV_L_CDYenwq7hXvLorZYO0iwmHkAzaXszqGaEkPsOHlMGI1h5ddpMXcX_2x_7TLEMZiZsdYSDMJj6GN5hxznpIGX0Cac1FDZYnpC59kzy5pvYv_x7_ujTK/s1600/Parade+Route.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" qu="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNzRxvnaYUSWisZM7fLoJXEWV_L_CDYenwq7hXvLorZYO0iwmHkAzaXszqGaEkPsOHlMGI1h5ddpMXcX_2x_7TLEMZiZsdYSDMJj6GN5hxznpIGX0Cac1FDZYnpC59kzy5pvYv_x7_ujTK/s320/Parade+Route.JPG" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVFUt6sMM9jFpcqjqz05M686U2y_8YSthJz1lk0aDnj-Y8FfUg7xn7lK_sv8VniDoLNHRY6JJT38bDM4rrF2x3yulQMtRjBOqGx3faiHzOQmEiux5EIEt8grvCxvGYqhgqruJpJC0mQx6M/s1600/Parade+up+close.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" qu="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVFUt6sMM9jFpcqjqz05M686U2y_8YSthJz1lk0aDnj-Y8FfUg7xn7lK_sv8VniDoLNHRY6JJT38bDM4rrF2x3yulQMtRjBOqGx3faiHzOQmEiux5EIEt8grvCxvGYqhgqruJpJC0mQx6M/s320/Parade+up+close.JPG" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div>Today was the perfect day for a parade.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8mAAcCUUdaq4C_MllCRhsszNdMZlNsNFq-OWlBV0rKqurKjlp_ydpAK8-wGN63y5zhjaU5fhbTWfLG4Xj_79UwHSgJ2twDAFr1SKFn-c_AHjKK-VbyBvL82e4BTTn2f0YZnVZVzzHOrgF/s1600/FlagDay.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" qu="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8mAAcCUUdaq4C_MllCRhsszNdMZlNsNFq-OWlBV0rKqurKjlp_ydpAK8-wGN63y5zhjaU5fhbTWfLG4Xj_79UwHSgJ2twDAFr1SKFn-c_AHjKK-VbyBvL82e4BTTn2f0YZnVZVzzHOrgF/s320/FlagDay.JPG" /></a></div>Mild temps and an overcast sky. Need I say more???Ronhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06836828895863532196noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4408675444836891558.post-9857487929131918872010-06-12T16:51:00.002-05:002010-06-12T17:48:45.408-05:00Ready for the Parade...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmuh7cAORzcUA1-hDDKUf1cMY_r-gj78FfimDwA0vPwmdGEkLvGyAflUOJEEjl6agLlf8h05A_5LB4t3jDPiA71UFiZYIz07vKvqfAszCUYqfQEccDaS8Qtn4hKW56tOB58R_EJgr3Mvqf/s1600/CIMG0093.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" qu="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmuh7cAORzcUA1-hDDKUf1cMY_r-gj78FfimDwA0vPwmdGEkLvGyAflUOJEEjl6agLlf8h05A_5LB4t3jDPiA71UFiZYIz07vKvqfAszCUYqfQEccDaS8Qtn4hKW56tOB58R_EJgr3Mvqf/s320/CIMG0093.JPG" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIkXNNUv8jvPhDhbmh41UXMz33HITWWxBuFMKC38rAeflPGdE1hRumXihaJvWHgwnhARpfO8ySKesHjwen4SRw4Px0yliuNqEvM9T02Mu7XalUArn722Ew5t0w61E_VWWs14m08NMn4-v5/s1600/CIMG0084.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" qu="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIkXNNUv8jvPhDhbmh41UXMz33HITWWxBuFMKC38rAeflPGdE1hRumXihaJvWHgwnhARpfO8ySKesHjwen4SRw4Px0yliuNqEvM9T02Mu7XalUArn722Ew5t0w61E_VWWs14m08NMn4-v5/s320/CIMG0084.JPG" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyVJnzJzXiFnTy8szQtzQgtWd6I4HBjLMcEtnBHMKHp8D8asbLl6yXfnCwHnlrZlEzbvZioC_9yk49s_DQizCP3kh6_08zNunZoPAEIHjm7Wbx4hslP5lMQjOhIySCZCmYb6HX6sfULC9P/s1600/CIMG0096.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" qu="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyVJnzJzXiFnTy8szQtzQgtWd6I4HBjLMcEtnBHMKHp8D8asbLl6yXfnCwHnlrZlEzbvZioC_9yk49s_DQizCP3kh6_08zNunZoPAEIHjm7Wbx4hslP5lMQjOhIySCZCmYb6HX6sfULC9P/s320/CIMG0096.JPG" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxgbimaMsmvuykZ3Zbe31XblUEDjXORAqZ_wZmCXRXf2CCVnB70r8eYuVwIRQlRD1a9rlpHWY5ssKH6CcOyOefog_DeyujmL0RLAfOXIRTgM1QOHmTsH8MvCZrXCu43HPe7TDM0ILerqp6/s1600/CIMG0072.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" qu="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxgbimaMsmvuykZ3Zbe31XblUEDjXORAqZ_wZmCXRXf2CCVnB70r8eYuVwIRQlRD1a9rlpHWY5ssKH6CcOyOefog_DeyujmL0RLAfOXIRTgM1QOHmTsH8MvCZrXCu43HPe7TDM0ILerqp6/s320/CIMG0072.JPG" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4CK_ofCamDjl_jJbxGULTLhhFWJVIX3tSNdM7GMqR7qGi080u3OCOYgO8IZldwK56SPtlswrM920KtmY4yof2IhRUZ0aJHCF7JspaflygiVHe2f8s_qA9X82eCbQe6AbAx8HNihbqAt2E/s1600/CIMG0095.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" qu="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4CK_ofCamDjl_jJbxGULTLhhFWJVIX3tSNdM7GMqR7qGi080u3OCOYgO8IZldwK56SPtlswrM920KtmY4yof2IhRUZ0aJHCF7JspaflygiVHe2f8s_qA9X82eCbQe6AbAx8HNihbqAt2E/s320/CIMG0095.JPG" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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I spent four hours this morning getting the Clenet ready for tomorrow's Flag Day Parade in Three Oaks, Michigan. I started by taking our vacuum to the lambswool carpets and removed a good year's worth of dried grass, leaves and small debris particles from deep within the nap. I'm actually quite embarrassed that we let the car get this dirty! The front carpets are removable, making the task much easier. After the front carpets were vacuumed, I moved onto the trunk which is also lined in lambswool and leather.<br />
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The leather hides covering the seats, door panels and dash felt a bit dry, so I took the opportunity to add conditioner. Why stop in the cockpit? I continued the conditioning through into the trunk, completing the entire interior.<br />
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I moved onto washing and drying the car - we're now ready for tomorrow's Flag Day Parade.Ronhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06836828895863532196noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4408675444836891558.post-62734180845430413312010-06-05T08:45:00.002-05:002010-06-12T17:48:13.176-05:00Three Oaks, Michigan - Historic Featherbone Factory<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJ0_WLk7HDEV1SyRZNQbn0iKqS2GzPdi8a4ITH25TWq8gANLInQtsOIc3GYqlwKr9dXLEg0RBlKIGvKB3RnDkx0G67Wq1k6PsgkBy0Abwq8YR1upYmOsX7qXWQlXT-Do3XsS9BDS65UBHA/s1600/Outside+the+Featherbone+Store.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" qu="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJ0_WLk7HDEV1SyRZNQbn0iKqS2GzPdi8a4ITH25TWq8gANLInQtsOIc3GYqlwKr9dXLEg0RBlKIGvKB3RnDkx0G67Wq1k6PsgkBy0Abwq8YR1upYmOsX7qXWQlXT-Do3XsS9BDS65UBHA/s320/Outside+the+Featherbone+Store.JPG" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div>Parked outside the Historic Featherbone Factory Store in Three Oaks Michigan.<br />
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Next weekend, the Village of Three Oaks will host the world's largest Flag Day celebration beginning on Friday and culminating with the parade Sunday afternoon featuring about 150 entrants. I sent my registration form last week to ensure my entry with the Clenet. A few days later I received an e-mail from the organizers asking if I'd consider being the lead car by driving the Grand Marshall.<br />
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Of course I'd consider, let's hope for clear skies!Ronhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06836828895863532196noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4408675444836891558.post-32657585790901182892010-05-12T10:51:00.000-05:002010-05-12T10:51:48.708-05:00New Exhaust SystemWe drove into Chicago this morning to have much needed exhaust work performed on the Clenet. From the manifold back, new custom-bent dual exhaust pipes flowing into low-restriction mufflers. We'll drive the car for the next few weeks to see how we like the exhaust note.Ronhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06836828895863532196noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4408675444836891558.post-36525037626619409482010-04-30T20:26:00.000-05:002010-04-30T20:26:35.280-05:00Seven Days Until the First Show of the Season.Mario and I are hoping to attend the Spring Dust Off with the <span class="goog-spellcheck-word">Clenet</span> next Saturday at the Chicago Belmont Yacht Club. To prepare the <span class="goog-spellcheck-word">Clenet</span> for this coming driving season, we have enlisted the guys over at Grand Beach Tire and Auto Repair in Grand Beach, Michigan.<br />
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Mario and I have not completely liked how the <span class="goog-spellcheck-word">Clenet</span> drives out on the open road. The ride isn't as smooth as we think it should be and the engine performance is a bit sluggish. Of course we're not tearing up the streets with the car, knowing it sat for almost 30 years without being driven, let alone started.<br />
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Grand Beach Tire and Auto Repair is looking into a few of the issues, starting with re-balancing the new American Classic tires installed after we purchased the car. From there with the tires off the car, we are having them move onto the brake system - something we have not done since purchasing the car! We've found sticking drums on one rear wheel - explaining why that tire likes to lock under swift braking.<br />
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My XK8 has also been turned over to a local collision center to have the rear fender replaced due to a minor wreck endured just hours after taking the car out of winter storage.<br />
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Perhaps the car will be ready tomorrow afternoon, giving us a few days during the week to give it a really good wash and vacuum! I'll post after next the spring opener next weekend.Ronhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06836828895863532196noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4408675444836891558.post-65228313140676690582010-03-01T20:44:00.000-06:002010-03-01T20:44:00.644-06:00Winter Drive<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5lmZfJqKDzkf9OUfjroHqkCFISKLmQMYggVmHduT6-kf1wYbmyYKnWnIC_fqJ8I8GOUns8HU218GWf9Z3wFD11W4MoXtpxP9U_6yimd6rZCrDDKMsdFaNSBoCSG8kIyMivyjXYklcCA6O/s1600-h/Clenet+Drive+3.1.10.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" kt="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5lmZfJqKDzkf9OUfjroHqkCFISKLmQMYggVmHduT6-kf1wYbmyYKnWnIC_fqJ8I8GOUns8HU218GWf9Z3wFD11W4MoXtpxP9U_6yimd6rZCrDDKMsdFaNSBoCSG8kIyMivyjXYklcCA6O/s320/Clenet+Drive+3.1.10.jpg" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;">My last posting to the blog spoke of the last time either Mario or I drove the Clenet. It was sometime in early November before it was stored for the winter months. Last winter we had a break in the February weather that gave us a very warm weekend with daytime high temps pushing sixty degrees. Mario and I were eager and excited to take the car out for a spin.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div>Today, the 1st of March 2010, I had a crazy notion to take the car out for a drive. After a quick breakfast, I left my home in Three Oaks. While on the road, I phoned Mario to see if he was interested in joining me. He was twenty miles away showing homes to a client and seemed preoccupied to continue the phone conversation. I told him to call me when he became free.<br />
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I continued driving to his home in order to retrieve the keys and alarm code for the garage where the car has been stored. The idea of taking the car out for a spin was becoming more and more promising as I journeyed towards Mario's home. The streets were dry and clear - something I was hoping for! Mario's home is tucked away off the beaten path on a private dirt road that doesn't get much sun! The X-type (AWD) was having some trouble getting through the remaining slushy snow. I've never gotten stuck while driving the X-type today was no different. I was determined to get the keys and the alarm code!<br />
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The Clenet is stored less than a mile from Mario's home - luckily in a garage that's located in an area that has paved roads. After retrieving the keys and code, I made my way to the garage and was very happy to find all of the paved roads and streets clear and dry. Within minutes I had the garage opened and the alarm turned off. I pushed the car out of the garage, closed the overhead door and then locked up the home and garage. I jumped into the Clenet, pumped the gas about 10 times and turned the key. I knew the car would quickly fire and it did. I let the car warm a bit in the driveway as I checked the gauges and mirrors.<br />
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In less than a minute I was motoring along the Red Arrow Highway headed towards New Buffalo. It was wonderful driving our baby...with appropriate 70's disco and pop music accompanying me. I took the opportunity to fill the tank, check the appropriate fluids and clean the windows at a local filling station where an elderly couple approached me to compliment the car. I've turned a few heads along the way...most likely people wondering who's the eccentric driver motoring about the area in a Clenet.<br />
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The few hours behind the wheel of the Clenet did wonders to lift my spirits and I enjoyed every second!Ronhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06836828895863532196noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4408675444836891558.post-57415454305208230542010-01-06T10:58:00.000-06:002010-01-06T10:58:57.174-06:00We last drove our Clenet...Mario and I last drove our Clenet in mid-November. The weather just prior to Thanksgiving was very cooperative, considering how cool and wet the Fall season turned out to be. The past week has brought Southwest Michigan a daily deluge of lake-effect snow that's amounted to about 20+ inches, with more expected. I want to drive our Clenet!!! With the rate of snowfall and the daytime high hovering in the low 20's, I'll most likely not get to drive the car 'til March or April.<br />
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Last winter was cold, however towards the end of February the snowfall had let up a bit giving us clear roads and streets. There were a few weekends where Mario and I were able to take the car out for a drive, snapping pics along the way.<br />
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Let's hope we have a few days where I can satisfy the need to drive the Clenet, even for a short drive around the Harbor Country area.Ronhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06836828895863532196noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4408675444836891558.post-48427327779811987732009-11-02T07:51:00.003-06:002009-11-02T07:53:40.692-06:00LCC-LMR Fall Driving Tour 2009<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">Finally...a weekend without rain! A few weeks ago, the LCC-LMR hosted the last official driving event of the year that combined two great interests of mine. Cars and architecture!<br />
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</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">Mario and I met at the garage where the Clenet is being stored, lifted the overhead door and pushed it out into the driveway. The garage being located under a lakefront home has a pesky CO detector in an adjoining room that enjoys hampering our day by quietly phoning ADT Home Security Services should we dare turn the ignition key with the car parked inside.<br />
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</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">With the Clenet outside and the overhead door closed, we fired up our baby and headed for the far western suburbs of Chicago to meet with the LCC-LMR guys. We drove just under two hours & over 90 miles to enjoy a 1-hour driving tour...go figure!<br />
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Bright and early this wonderful crisp & sunny Sunday morning, about 50 guys met up at a riverside park at Batavia, IL. We enjoyed hot coffee & cider with our morning pastries while gossiping and checking out the fabulous cars brought out for this drive. They were all quite wonderful and ranged from the 50's through modern. Mario and I were nearly the last to arrive and quickly parked behind a white-on-white Cadillac Eldorado Convertible.<br />
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<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">A good hour of lively morning banter had passed with the guys were ready to assemble the caravan for our drive to Farnsworth House in Plano, IL. This would be my third visit to Farnsworth, the first being in the late 90’s just after Peter Palumbo finished an extensive renovation. The driving tour was somewhat uneventful and the fall colors were mostly hues of yellow and gold due to the very wet fall season. Along the route, we passed through several small villages with interesting architecturally-significant homes and wide open farmland.<br />
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</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">We arrived at Farnsworth and enjoyed a private tour of the home and grounds. The home is now owned and operated by Landmarks Illinois, a not-for-profit organization that purchased the home in a much-hyped auction back in 2003. <a href="http://www.farnsworthhouse.org/">http://www.farnsworthhouse.org/</a><br />
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</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">I want to copy and build this home for myself out here in Michigan! I have become a fan of the mid-century style even though my taste has leaned towards traditional architecture and decorating. The home is basically a sparsely furnished glass box with travertine floor and white plaster ceiling yet surprisingly retains a feeling of warmth. It’s very calming.<br />
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</div>The group toured the home and grounds for about two hours before departing for a late lunch. Mario and I said our goodbye’s after dining and drove through the southern suburbs of Chicago into Indiana towards Michigan. We returned the Clenet about twelve hours after meeting earlier in the morning and truly enjoyed our day.Ronhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06836828895863532196noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4408675444836891558.post-23063921861757031922009-11-02T06:27:00.000-06:002009-11-02T06:27:02.902-06:00Very Wet and Cold Midwest Fall SeasonI feel cheated! A friend all the way back from High School posted "I can't believe it's November" on her Facebook wall this morning. I had to comment that I couldn't believe August had arrived and am in denial that September and October have come and gone!<br />
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Last Fall was warm and dry here in the Midwest. Shuttling between Chicago and the HarborCountry area of Michigan allowed me many opportunities to drive the XK8 with the top lowered. With my black leather driving gloves, I'd retrieve the Clenet from the garage and motor along the open country roads with the cool wind in my hair. Had I tried doing so this year...well, I'd still be pulling wet and slimy leaves from my face! LOL<br />
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At least I'm keeping a humorous attitude! The sunny and warm fall days were few this season and I made good use of them by taking the Clenet out for short drives.<br />
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The Clenet and my XK8 will be tucked away for the winter within a matter of weeks and I'll have to redirect my focus on other things until Spring of 2010 arrives!Ronhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06836828895863532196noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4408675444836891558.post-73207894068119857792009-11-01T16:16:00.001-06:002009-11-02T06:09:23.090-06:00Something about Saugatuck 2009<div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNJ9a5Fd51nvFvwT6AI8DrtJWVs1uepK765156YFfcIL-YQPhl680uLEe2gVBgP7sey49s-AsRzL6gDiANOIaZKDHYASk3R4SEMyYhecKovI8Vk8KjCV-bRnFOrwZNwMenKFYGlspCrCos/s1600-h/79Clenet.jpg.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNJ9a5Fd51nvFvwT6AI8DrtJWVs1uepK765156YFfcIL-YQPhl680uLEe2gVBgP7sey49s-AsRzL6gDiANOIaZKDHYASk3R4SEMyYhecKovI8Vk8KjCV-bRnFOrwZNwMenKFYGlspCrCos/s320/79Clenet.jpg.jpg" vr="true" /></a><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">Mid September came around with the LCC-MDR guys hosting an extended weekend in Saugatuck, Michigan. My first visit to Saugatuck, MI was the summer of '89 when the Lake Michigan Region (Chicago) chapter of the LCC journeyed around the lake from Chicago. Back then, us Chicago guys would take several extended weekend trips to Saugatuck throughout the "driving" months.<br />
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</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">This year my brother and I wanted to show the Clenet, complete with facelift and our Cadillac Fleetwood that hasn't been driving much since purchasing the Clenet last year. The weekend prior to the Saugatuck weekend, Mario pulled the Cadillac out of the garage and we spent a few hours working on it. I mentioned this in a prior blog post when I had the Clenet out front of Milda's Corner Market in Union Pier on a sunny Sunday afternoon.<br />
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</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">Our good friend Larry from Chicago wanted to join us in Saugatuck; however he recently sold his weekend cruiser, a stunning '84 Riviera Convertible named Carlotta...because she was a lot of car! I convinced Larry to bring one of the commuter trains from Chicago to nearby Michigan City, IN mid-day Friday. Mario then would collect Larry from the depot, continuing up the lakeshore to Saugatuck. I would drive the Clenet solo from New Buffalo and meet up at the host resort. Mario, Larry and I blew-off the Friday evening reception and invited antother five guys to join us for dinner in neighboring Douglas, Michigan. All eight of us nestled in the Fleetwood, we certainly made our presence known as we secured rock-star parking right out front the restaurant. Mario docked the Cadillac next to a Toyota Pius with a few chuckling as we disembarked for the restaurant. Our table being reserved allowed us to glide past those waiting in the crowded reception area and we immediately ordered several fine bottles of red. Frank and Mike…thank you for the libations!<br />
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</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">Several Midwest regions of the LCC join the fun when the Michiana Dunes Region hosts this annual meet. We always enjoy seeing a good number of friends from both the Eastern and Western parts of Michigan, Illinois, Indiana, Ohio, Wisconsin and Minneapolis. Many fabulous cars were driven with an (almost) matching pair of '56 Continentals, early 50's Bentley and the proverbial plethora of 50's / 60's chrome & fins! Muscle from the 60’s and 70’s, fully restored pick-ups and early smog/fuel shortage runabouts brought back memories of grade school and high school years!<br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCzj_rfTrmnw0xwNSuH9xGEZNxtwux1yT9ye3pg_cjvG3R_fpJKdzwu3xQ__ZA5Mcs57WWjjzPMxjQinXWrsqSy4OvMOdwjNa8n3M1qobIGNOfTimT060_pEQEbWaatRM0MOSWIgDUZoQ6/s1600-h/79Cougar.jpg.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCzj_rfTrmnw0xwNSuH9xGEZNxtwux1yT9ye3pg_cjvG3R_fpJKdzwu3xQ__ZA5Mcs57WWjjzPMxjQinXWrsqSy4OvMOdwjNa8n3M1qobIGNOfTimT060_pEQEbWaatRM0MOSWIgDUZoQ6/s320/79Cougar.jpg.jpg" vr="true" /></a><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">The nice thing…our Clenet was the one and only, with the exception of a long lost relative being shown! An absolute immaculate 1979 Mercury Cougar Wagon in Forest Green graced the weekend show! The Saturday afternoon car show could not have been nicer with the weather being very cooperative and pleasant. Last year’s event was curtailed with biblical rainfall and an almost flooded Clenet!<br />
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</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">Much fun was had all weekend with activities taking most waking hours. Sunday morning came and I had to leave early to meet Ken who was visiting with a cousin that he hadn’t seen in many years in nearby South Haven. With my weekend duffle packed, I said my goodbyes to a few friends milling about and wiping the morning dew from their cars. With coffee in hand I motored away knowing that the driving season of 2009 is just about over. I savored each and every mile driving the Clenet from Saugatuck.<br />
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</div>Ronhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06836828895863532196noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4408675444836891558.post-9136186224937745442009-09-13T19:55:00.001-05:002009-09-14T11:03:11.241-05:00Sunday Drive in Harbor Country<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPdH-VT17l5qMAvx3W3H7N39dfNVGcTvaDmzChzdiHNvMNkEPq0ba_LRvLGe95FPkhOOs0JpxLVOYInIcsJmqz4L1hmTxKBabK2PVKwE-EYbR8EuDpB6Rf8F30P_EAB1lZZd5hyphenhyphenRYxm2Nx/s1600-h/229atmildas.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" mq="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPdH-VT17l5qMAvx3W3H7N39dfNVGcTvaDmzChzdiHNvMNkEPq0ba_LRvLGe95FPkhOOs0JpxLVOYInIcsJmqz4L1hmTxKBabK2PVKwE-EYbR8EuDpB6Rf8F30P_EAB1lZZd5hyphenhyphenRYxm2Nx/s320/229atmildas.jpg" /></a></div><br />
Warm sunshine and clear skies on a beautiful Sunday morning means that one could drive their Clenet all over Harbor Country...so long they own one! I backed our Clenet out of the garage and drove to Bailey's where I would meet Ken for breakfast this morning. I scored rock-star parking out front and took a window seat and opened my laptop. The place was busy and had a lively atmosphere.<br />
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Ken arrived about twenty minutes later. I closed the computer, ordered breakfast and enjoyed a leisurely weekend breakfast. Afterwards, Ken left to open the Featherbone Factory Store and I drove towards Lakeside towards Mario's home. Just as I turned onto the dirt road he calls a "country lane," I noticed our '67 Fleetwood driving away from his home.<br />
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I followed the Caddy to the intersection to have Mario finally realize I was in the Clenet behind him. He was about to meet a client in nearby Union Pier. Knowing this particular client, I followed and enjoyed a quick conversation at Skip's farmers market.<br />
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The Caddy has been ignored since acquiring the Clenet and Mario was going to have fun with Priscilla today. We agreed to meet back at his home to spend time freshening the old gal. On my way back towards Lakeside, I stopped at Milda's deli and bakery in Union Pier. Milda was seated outside the establishment and immediately greeted the Clenet. Yes, I digress the car usually gets top billing!<br />
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We spoke for a bit, however I was a parched and desperately needed some libation! Milda asked if I'd wait for a few minutes to give her husband time to run over with his camera. Linus has been snapping pics of customers inside the store and at times, really cool cars outside! Today was Clenet Roadster's lucky day to be the local Union Pier celeb du jour.<br />
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I stuck around, offering to reposition the car for a few shots that showed the deli in the background. While posing for the pics we were greeted by a few of Milda's customers - some inquiring about the car. I am always eager to share the Clenet story and the history of #229. Needing to get on my way back to Mario's home, I departed and agreed to bring our '67 Fleetwood Brougham this fall season. With a blast of the airhorns, I sped away to spend several hours with Mario and Priscilla, Queen of the Prairie.Ronhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06836828895863532196noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4408675444836891558.post-85799146811025240482009-09-05T15:45:00.001-05:002009-09-05T15:56:13.425-05:00Summer Drive, Lake Shore Drive, Chicago<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmWcsYWrdHB_cF0ycV4lhM8W1cj-6g_lDbSnqlOiLoSK7MQgEsNYM8sD3NdIAnGKwbRH6a-T0Rjf1uCveoAiZvr1QcdIp5-j-6Ql2575os-m6dM8xMmg-saZaj8QTrb11ZboijazbaxyyK/s1600-h/CIMG0639.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" lk="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmWcsYWrdHB_cF0ycV4lhM8W1cj-6g_lDbSnqlOiLoSK7MQgEsNYM8sD3NdIAnGKwbRH6a-T0Rjf1uCveoAiZvr1QcdIp5-j-6Ql2575os-m6dM8xMmg-saZaj8QTrb11ZboijazbaxyyK/s320/CIMG0639.JPG" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">September is here and I ask myself where summer went? Here in the Midwest, the trees will begin to change colors soon and I feel as if we didn't get to enjoy driving the Clenet that much. I just came across this photo that was taken back in July when Mario and I made an impromtu drive to Chicago on a sunny weekday afternoon.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">For some reason, I had my camera with me and took a few snapshots of us motoring up Michigan Avenue, Lake Shore Drive and along various city streets. The view from behind the wheel of the Clenet is interesting at best. The hood seems to go on forever and the chrome bullet-style turn indicators act as guides to assist the driver while negotiating lanes.</div><br />
This particular day I had a scheduled dental appointment in the south suburbs while Mario wanted to get his hair cut on the far north side of the city. We saw each other that morning over breakfast and each mentioned their plans to drive to Chicago. In unison, we agreed to carpool and also chose to take the Clenet. Mario's appointment was first and we drove from Michigan, through Indiana via the Toll way and entered Chicago over the Skyway toll-bridge.<br />
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Once past the Dan Ryan expressway Mario continued along Lake Shore Drive to the Hollywood Avenue exit into the Edgewater neighborhood to his barber. It was a busy early afternoon and a typical twenty minute haircut took just about an hour with waiting time. I waited outside with the car the entire time. Mario emerged from the barber and we hurried back to Lake Shore Drive to begin our forty-five minute drive into suburban Homewood for my dental appointment. Mario spent time at a local automotive retailer while I was getting my teeth cleaned. After the appointment we headed back to Michigan, just in time for dinner.<br />
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With September upon us, I have every intention to enjoy the Clenet before it will be parked for the winter. In a few short weeks the LCC-MDR region will be hosting their annual Saugatuck event and with luck, the weather will cooperate this year!<br />
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Happy motoring.<br />
rzRonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06836828895863532196noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4408675444836891558.post-40252258700590066182009-08-07T12:33:00.009-05:002009-08-07T13:54:42.732-05:00A Twin For the Clenet?<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjppJxdJJ2-xSYmpenJP7dnl8ppTVFiqXYgR44UE3USLho5pLAJzeVzBMh5DNIbZTrPEyDMKZrY8hZsHgMm2NjfbZNjE8F5qmkGVrnpBZEINuCF7hetO2w6xRYeQm8LitD7gvwuhRbdVC8e/s1600-h/CIMG0037.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5367294667913306466" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjppJxdJJ2-xSYmpenJP7dnl8ppTVFiqXYgR44UE3USLho5pLAJzeVzBMh5DNIbZTrPEyDMKZrY8hZsHgMm2NjfbZNjE8F5qmkGVrnpBZEINuCF7hetO2w6xRYeQm8LitD7gvwuhRbdVC8e/s320/CIMG0037.JPG" /></a><br /><div align="left">Every-so-often I check out the usual on-line resources for Clenet S-1's and their related parts that might be offered for sale. In mid-July I came across a simple classified ad in the Auto Bible known as Hemmings Motor News. The four-line ad merely stated that a 1979 Clenet was being offered for sale with mileage known to be in the low 40's.</div><div></div><br /><div>With '79 being the transitional year between the S-1 and the S-2, I was reluctant to call as the seller had not included that information nor a photo of the car. A good week had passed with my curiosity finally getting the best of me and I dialed the phone number. I was greeted by a gentleman who enjoyed having lengthy conversations. The first question I asked was if the Clenet being offered was a Series I or a Series II. The seller immediately confirmed that he was selling a genuine Series I Clenet and asked me why most callers as that question. I did not have an answer for the other people who may have called him, but my answer was that I am only interested in acquiring another Series I.</div><div></div><br /><div>The seller being most endearing kept me on the phone for almost an hour, even though he kept telling me he needed to be at a local outdoor music performance. I was able to break the conversation and told him to enjoy his evening as I agreed to phone back the next day. That following afternoon I found time to call the seller who again was able to keep me on the phone for another hour. This time it was I who was late for a dinner engagement and did my best to get my questions answered.</div><div></div><br /><div>Through no less than three lengthy phone conversations, the seller seemed to have an extensive history of this particular Clenet. At one point during one of the phone calls, he took his cordless phone out to the car where he was able to tell me the Car Sequence Number, VIN and other unique identifiers that confirmed the car was authentic. I had to ask these questions as I've found several advertisements offering a Clenet for sale that actually isn't.<br /></div><div>After having the conversation with the seller, I got the crazy notion to drive 10+ hours south to see the car and called my brother Mario to see if he was up for an impromptu road trip. The following afternoon we hopped into the XK8 and drove clear through to southern Tennessee after having dinner in Louisville, Kentucky. The next morning we awoke to rainy skies and continued our journey into Alabama and arrived at the seller's home within minutes of our ETA. The rain was clearing and we were greeted with bright skies and periodic sunshine.</div><br /><div>As we approached the home, there it was...parked outdoors under a carport. A red and beige Clenet S-1. My immediate reaction to the car was that the paint color seemed a bit "off" from what I would expect from the factory. Within a minute of inspecting the car, I confirmed the body had been repainted as the caramel leather interior didn't compliment either the body nor fender colors. The car was solid as far as the frame and metalwork were concerned, however the previous owner took too many liberties with "customizing" the vehicle by adding his monogrammed initials, tooled leather accents, various armed forces & higher education insignias everywhere possible...with a rivet gun! The fenders showed prior repair work that was sophomoric at best and many exterior accessories were broken, in need of replacement. Upon further inspection we found no less than 15 areas the first owner haphazardly engraved his name into body parts and components.</div><br /><div>Having driven over 600 miles one way, we chose to stay longer than necessary to thoroughly inspect this particular vehicle. We took over 50 pics of the car to help reinforce our decision to take a pass on the car. The seller's opinion of stated condition varied greatly from my opinion of the vehicle. I used our Clenet as the benchmark to use as comparison when making the determination. I extended my opinion of what the car was worth (to me) and the seller immediately replied that he would not sell it for that price. </div><br /><div>Being very disappointed with the car, Mario and I thanked the seller for his time and began our ten-hour journey back home. The entire 600 miles of driving, we never turned on the car radio; instead we talked about our Clenet, this particular Clenet among other subjects to pass the time. We both agreed that even with its issues, our car is a museum piece when compared to the poor thing we just drove 600 miles to see. As stated, the frame and metal body seems to be solid, however most everything else needs to be repaired or refurbished to bring this car around. I'd consider the challenge, however nowhere near the advertised price.</div><br /><div>With the dog days of summer here, Mario and I are hoping that we can find time to perform some exhaust and brake work on our Clenet. In the meantime, we'll be enjoying and respecting our car.</div><div></div>Ronhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06836828895863532196noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4408675444836891558.post-78862090536760411592009-07-19T17:14:00.003-05:002009-07-19T17:34:36.530-05:00Enjoying the summer!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitNhVenXdoT6ZhEsOISHey-mYVnV8DRwrZap02G66zVzcqOLjlVa_morsbnq9xL-tdWesXc2Kwr6Tv1Ki_79inZbBLUEmAc2j3tOGCMPbAKYTXuVZ6QU-mamOe35fUM5s6bpfKfI28YpTx/s1600-h/Music+in+the+Park.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5360303302617736306" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitNhVenXdoT6ZhEsOISHey-mYVnV8DRwrZap02G66zVzcqOLjlVa_morsbnq9xL-tdWesXc2Kwr6Tv1Ki_79inZbBLUEmAc2j3tOGCMPbAKYTXuVZ6QU-mamOe35fUM5s6bpfKfI28YpTx/s320/Music+in+the+Park.JPG" /></a><br /><div>We're about half way through Summer and we've been enjoying the Clenet. It's mid-July and just yesterday we drove the car from Southwest Michigan to Kankakee, IL for a LCC gathering in Cobb Park, a wonderful and historic riverside neighborhood.</div><br /><div></div><br /><div>We drove back to Michigan in time to attend an outdoor affair hosted by J. L. Powell and later, Music in the Park at Dewey Cannon Park in Three Oaks, Michigan. Mario drove the Clenet first to J. L. Powell and then to the park. We met with a few friends and enjoyed the performance.</div><br /><div></div><br /><div>The Clenet drew a good amount of attention and I let Mario field the many questions asked by the small group surrounding our car. Afterwards Ken and I walked to Infinitas Salon and Gallery for a nightcap. Mario brought the Clenet home for me and I called it an evening.</div><br /><div></div><br /><div>Today we agreed to show the car at J. L. Powell's outdoor show and I dropped it off just after having a late breakfast. As I arrived, I met with the owner and he immediately ushered me into a spot directly in front of his establishment. This was the very first time we ever left the Clenet unattended for more than a few minutes, however I trusted the crowd would respect it. Upon returning more than five hours later, the Clenet was 100% intact and I overheard people discussing how wonderful the looked. Again, I fielded a few questions and had a lengthy conversation about the car and Clenet Coachworks with a very eager bystander.</div><br /><div></div><br /><div>The Summer season is moving along and I hope we are able to enjoy a clear driving season!</div>Ronhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06836828895863532196noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4408675444836891558.post-83348770827626649942009-05-31T21:16:00.004-05:002009-05-31T21:33:22.903-05:00Gray Pinstripes Complete the Look...<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhchlP-Mbu7i1kOixw0HZvQs8ovieRu4YWffjhgnxK5m7R6UlY2rTR0R9D4cUvIJOyvMRWlGK-p6CwGy9q6mTq8OSETDXEzM897Gq0QPVT7GqR7bYjbr4lpG9LuVqGSSDuq__Ph0P5hZfJD/s1600-h/pinstripes3.jpg.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhchlP-Mbu7i1kOixw0HZvQs8ovieRu4YWffjhgnxK5m7R6UlY2rTR0R9D4cUvIJOyvMRWlGK-p6CwGy9q6mTq8OSETDXEzM897Gq0QPVT7GqR7bYjbr4lpG9LuVqGSSDuq__Ph0P5hZfJD/s320/pinstripes3.jpg.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5342180951843122018" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOMR3YANs6qTFGG73AxaDo8aDTP05umNLOYHVDoPVCmkyLuRn44SimOSObbl-54FCWGz1U_QheI6LxtKtQ0ifWsK-UY2M0dyNdj19PMxBR7jyFOWJ9KFgpqtIlr9xVUS36o48OJD9ZdSL3/s1600-h/pinstripes2.jpg.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOMR3YANs6qTFGG73AxaDo8aDTP05umNLOYHVDoPVCmkyLuRn44SimOSObbl-54FCWGz1U_QheI6LxtKtQ0ifWsK-UY2M0dyNdj19PMxBR7jyFOWJ9KFgpqtIlr9xVUS36o48OJD9ZdSL3/s320/pinstripes2.jpg.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5342180947664710354" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzmmbLrKIKHkzSo5EKSpH06uf2R7hNyDbWQNZCBMKdFF8pgLaJHCXAHe0SFlCTReSGn1i7IA5jcklrplzGi6HR7PFjFRValZNi0uiDNkWQwi573rW_5_sviFRDjQj3KGD37mMZbWlPoCA6/s1600-h/pinstripes1.jpg.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzmmbLrKIKHkzSo5EKSpH06uf2R7hNyDbWQNZCBMKdFF8pgLaJHCXAHe0SFlCTReSGn1i7IA5jcklrplzGi6HR7PFjFRValZNi0uiDNkWQwi573rW_5_sviFRDjQj3KGD37mMZbWlPoCA6/s320/pinstripes1.jpg.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5342180943059250322" border="0" /></a><br />After changing the fender color to red, we needed to tie-in the fenders to the body. The car came from the factory with red pinstripes hand-painted on the body to compliment the interior color. Mario and I researched all Clenet pics we could find published on the Internet. The one photograph we kept coming back to was the 3/4 view of Jerry Capizzi's wonderful Series I with burgundy red fenders and sand-colored body. I enlarged the photograph and we both decided the pinstripes were exactly what we wanted on our car.<br /><br />Back in early April I found a guy here in the Chicago suburbs who specialized in hand-painted pinstripes. His website had many pics of his work and I knew he was the pinstripe artist who would finish our car. He and I spoke several times over the next few weeks and we agreed that the next time the Clenet was brought to Chicago, that he'd come downtown and stripe the car in my parking garage.<br /><br />Mario and I wanted the car striped before we left for the LCCI grand invitational in Saint Louis. The day was set as Mario needed to attend a meeting at their Chicago headquarters. He drove the Clenet to Chicago the night prior and spent the night at my place. The next morning our pinstripe guy arrived with Mario eager to get him started. He set up shop in the parking garage and went to work.<br /><br />When I arrive home after work, the car was complete and Mario was already on his way back to Michigan with his business partner. The Clenet would stay in Chicago another night before we would leave for Saint Louis. I couldn't be happier with the stripes and took the car for a quick drive through the Gold Coast, Lake Shore Drive and the South Loop. The car looked wonderful and complete.Ronhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06836828895863532196noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4408675444836891558.post-33791103422032115382009-05-26T12:06:00.013-05:002009-05-27T14:36:27.151-05:00Meet Me in Saint Louis<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjv3tEfJqzV0S2nO8xCEBkFGmnUu4VFgQ65pveXMt4NSIgsc3TLqS31xSDERyYlA-PccuEgVs1kfoCWuhIpNsfU3cu3Pa2MfzFNS86AXZVw4YQz6qYq25-e5nydx8BNlZTLTHmfCXoMTnne/s1600-h/StLouis.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 211px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5340589391662842354" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjv3tEfJqzV0S2nO8xCEBkFGmnUu4VFgQ65pveXMt4NSIgsc3TLqS31xSDERyYlA-PccuEgVs1kfoCWuhIpNsfU3cu3Pa2MfzFNS86AXZVw4YQz6qYq25-e5nydx8BNlZTLTHmfCXoMTnne/s320/StLouis.jpg" /></a><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEib8qmaYM-hE3OyTY5q_ZqCp9FC6geH2ooVstKpltLJOqcFeVlroYeZHGISRhhPavp05K1S7PTZlBRyvbXTF6ELfv6_B17mpGZsOKwgfBhJj6ledmIAPc8UPyjDDNx4j0RNDeaCAxK12lAm/s1600-h/highway.jpg.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5340589381048250514" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEib8qmaYM-hE3OyTY5q_ZqCp9FC6geH2ooVstKpltLJOqcFeVlroYeZHGISRhhPavp05K1S7PTZlBRyvbXTF6ELfv6_B17mpGZsOKwgfBhJj6ledmIAPc8UPyjDDNx4j0RNDeaCAxK12lAm/s320/highway.jpg.JPG" /></a><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4kKo4yPfpe5jjs3vd6RFLLAsrAAQ_hjNWWQE1BwgtGNGRzc-6_RWbP8-onW0jz27J5QYJqyVT1LPrlZvAZ_J6O26s9y50PDF4igcix0vT548Ya8l_TcDQtkvSZujQBfpf0KR9_Q4-p2Qk/s1600-h/Frank.jpg.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 182px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5340589379835622834" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4kKo4yPfpe5jjs3vd6RFLLAsrAAQ_hjNWWQE1BwgtGNGRzc-6_RWbP8-onW0jz27J5QYJqyVT1LPrlZvAZ_J6O26s9y50PDF4igcix0vT548Ya8l_TcDQtkvSZujQBfpf0KR9_Q4-p2Qk/s320/Frank.jpg.JPG" /></a><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuolqhWK1ZtNoaCTMKYcwOrlR7Y_pzOM6T8rxSRjsHyISuenc_07cQOefgzpngpaT04z1rRuVm9KXLSdRLr4yztjC7cqFI8sWVWMP9sua2l2y-7Od34YrVBKM5zdp7JZrf9983Agd8oIUn/s1600-h/Arch.jpg.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5340589373293702146" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuolqhWK1ZtNoaCTMKYcwOrlR7Y_pzOM6T8rxSRjsHyISuenc_07cQOefgzpngpaT04z1rRuVm9KXLSdRLr4yztjC7cqFI8sWVWMP9sua2l2y-7Od34YrVBKM5zdp7JZrf9983Agd8oIUn/s320/Arch.jpg.JPG" /></a> <div><br /><div><div><span style="font-family:times new roman;"><?xml:namespace prefix = o ns = "urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:office" /><o:p><p style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:180%;color:#ff0000;">W</span>e attended the LCCI Grand Invitational held in <?xml:namespace prefix = st1 ns = "urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:smarttags" /><st1:city st="on"><st1:place st="on">St. Louis</st1:place></st1:city>, hosted by the Show Me Region of our club over the extended Memorial Day holiday. Mario and I were able to catch-up with some friends we hadn’t seen in a few years as we were unable to attend the 2007 nor the 2008 Grand Invitational shows.<br /></p><p style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class="MsoNormal">A small group of us from Chicago agreed to caravan down into St. Louis early Thursday morning. We agreed to meet about seventy miles southwest of Chicago in Dwight, IL with the caravan promptly departing the local BP/Burger King at eight o’clock sharp! Mario drove the Clenet to Chicago a few days earlier so that we could have the fenders hand-striped in time for the invitational. This will be another story, so keep checking in!</p><br /><p style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class="MsoNormal">I set my alarm for five a.m. and woke up just before the alarm sounded. Mario was already up as I approached the guest room to wake him. We were both eager to get on the road to start our journey with the Clenet. We had the car packed by 5:45 and made our way to the local Starbuck’s in Sandburg Village by 6:00. With our morning coffee in hand, I was behind the wheel heading south on LaSalle Boulevard.</p><p style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class="MsoNormal"><br />The drive down Interstate 55 was uneventful so early in the morning, however we both noticed that the traffic inbound to Chicago was already backed up for miles and miles well into the next county! Mario and I were the first of our group to arrive at the designated meeting place. We had just finished topping off the gas tank as other members from our region started to arrive. Our caravan was comprised of a very eclectic array of cars, ten in all.</p><p style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class="MsoNormal"> </p><p style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class="MsoNormal">Mario and I chose to drive down with the hardtop fitted to the car to make the highway driving more bearable. To our surprise, the replacement vent window seals coupled with the hardtop gave us a very quiet journey. The air conditioning was cycling as it should and we were very comfortable the entire way.</p><p style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class="MsoNormal"><br />We departed at eight o’clock and continued along the Interstate in formation. Mario and I would periodically pull out of the caravan to snap some pics of our friends in their cars. As we approached St. Louis, the caravan made another stop to top off our tanks before getting into the metro area. After refueling, we had our first minor incident. The white Cadillac DeVille Convertible lost control of his throttle linkage. Mario and I hopped out of the Clenet to help resolve the problem. Mario eventually made a quick and effective roadside repair to get us on our way.</p><p style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class="MsoNormal"><br />We arrived just in time for lunch that was already taking place at a lovely historic park near St. Louis University and being served under a striking Victorian-era gazebo. We were delighted to have many of the people coming over to our car, showing interest and asking many questions about the car and the make. After lunch we toured the Anheuser-Busch Brewery with the club where we enjoyed the architecture, stables, company history and some ice-cold brew afterwards. We arrived at the hotel and promptly asked the bellman to check our hardtop after removing it from the car just outside the lobby doors.</p><p style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class="MsoNormal"><br />The five-day meet cumulated with the grand car show held on Sunday afternoon with an awards banquet following later that evening. I was disappointed that the Clenet did not receive any of the popular vote, however I was very proud that the car received as much attention as it did. Many, many people from the club and the public who attended this semi-private show gave the car a good deal of attention.</p><p style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class="MsoNormal"><br />After meeting with a few friends at the farewell breakfast early Monday morning, we repacked the Clenet and my Jaguar XK8 that good friend Larry used for the entire weekend. The weather turned against us as we endured several wicked thunderstorms near Springfield, IL. The Clenet handled well during the torrential rain and high winds that persisted for the first hundred miles or so. The rain subsided to infrequent showers all the way through back to the Chicagoland area. We arrived back at my home where Mario then continued his journey with the Clenet back to southwest Michigan.</o:p></span></p></div></div></div></div></div></div>Ronhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06836828895863532196noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4408675444836891558.post-25786035293534007642009-05-14T11:41:00.013-05:002009-05-27T17:49:02.656-05:00Chicago Yacht Club at Belmont Harbor<p align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmD2m2TclhF6FTMm9muZOE0kPTZS7OXXpr8horWb2rqzXT3nVLujAAVwsRQHYrY-SO5FvA0T_TAkRKUhvmjwwgYV0uawFhas811inAoBXPcF-trN6vD4tUfyXzFfUkXaTcdRNhSkPWh8j5/s1600-h/ron-mario-clenet-cropped.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 320px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 195px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5335840045794103570" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmD2m2TclhF6FTMm9muZOE0kPTZS7OXXpr8horWb2rqzXT3nVLujAAVwsRQHYrY-SO5FvA0T_TAkRKUhvmjwwgYV0uawFhas811inAoBXPcF-trN6vD4tUfyXzFfUkXaTcdRNhSkPWh8j5/s320/ron-mario-clenet-cropped.jpg" /></a></p><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;font-size:180%;color:#ff0000;"><br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;font-size:180%;color:#ff0000;">LCC-LMR Spring Dust Off at the Belmont Yacht Club of Chicago.<br /></span><br /><span style="font-size:180%;color:#ff0000;">T</span>his past weekend Mario and I drove the Clenet from Michigan to the first LCC-LMR event of the season hosted by the Belmont Yacht Club. We arrived about twenty minutes into the gathering with most of the attendees already there. A parking space for the Clenet was saved closest to the harbor for the Clenet.<br /><br />The last official LCC-LMR event was the Fall Driving Tour back in October of '08 just a week prior to us dismantling the fenders for the repairs over winter.<br /><br />This was our official unveiling of the car after its winter transformation. Mario and I headed out from Lakeside, MI early Saturday morning after having breakfast at Bailey's in Three Oaks with Ken. We had just returned from a road trip to North Carolina via Daytona Beach, Florida. The day was cool, windy and a bit overcast. We encountered some rain through Northern Indiana, however it quickly dissipated and we were able to enjoy the Spring Dust Off event.<br /><br />Many people within the car club, members of the yacht club and the general public who happened upon the car show gave us very positive feedback and many compliments. We fielded many questions and were very eager to tell the Clenet story. One man who saw the cars assembled from his high-rise across Lake Shore Drive hurried over to see them. He struck up a conversation with me and at first, didn't realize our car was a Clenet. When I had begun to tell the story, he then remembered the Clenet factory in Santa Barbara when he lived there back in the late 70's.<br /><br />This coming week prior to us leaving for the LCC Grand Invitational being held in St. Louis over the extended Memorial Day holiday weekend, we are having the fenders pinstriped with a light gray paint to match the body. We will do our best to have the pinstripe artist match similar stripes that were painted on the Clenet owned by Jerry Capizzi.<br /><br />We are looking forward to the caravan that is leaving Chicago next Thursday morning via I-55 to St. Louis.<br /><br />'Til then...Ronhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06836828895863532196noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4408675444836891558.post-69612596303713488392009-04-01T10:20:00.004-05:002009-05-27T17:38:40.108-05:00Spring thoughts...It's been about five weeks since I blogged about the Clenet. During that time we've had some warm clear days that allowed us to drive the Clenet. Last week while in Three Oaks by myself, took the car out for a drive and to run some errands for myself and my brother Mario who was busy working at his new Realty, Rubloff in New Buffalo.<br /><br />My XK8 was in the shop having some warranty work performed to the tune of $5,000; so I guess I should count my lucky stars for buying that service agreement when I purchased the XK8 back in 2006. Most all was covered and I paid about ten cents on the dollar for some major work. The repair facility in New Buffalo was on the list of errands. I needed to pay my part of the bill and sign the repair receipt for the warranty company to release payment.<br /><br />From New Buffalo, I took the Red Arrow Highway north into St. Joseph to return some electronics to the S.W. Michigan MLS office. I pulled into the parking lot and walked into the building. The two ladies at the MLS office asked if they could have my car and started to discuss some Real Estate business with me. They both thought I was Mario and were equally surprised to learn that I am his twin brother. I stayed for a brief conversation and shared a few laughs with them.<br /><br />From St. Joseph, I took some back road surface streets to Three Oaks and got back to Ken's house by late afternoon and took a quick nap. It was just one of those days where an afternoon nap sounded like a simple luxury, and I was all for it. Mario called just past five PM and we agreed to meet in Lakeside to return the Clenet to our borrowed garage.<br /><br />It was a fun way for me to spend a few hours by myself, yet getting those little pesky errands accomplished. I'm looking forward to having the car in Chicago during the fair-weather months to cruise around the Gold Coast neighborhood and along Michigan Ave.Ronhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06836828895863532196noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4408675444836891558.post-1387192613425944332009-02-25T21:34:00.004-06:002009-05-27T17:39:55.887-05:00Harbor Country Cruising - Open House Event.<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeO3GQpRpbdrfzwHDC3lWdIDR5Dkfw4UavBnsSiWsUuKieiSBflzGJtIL40TG1C5SMdgsAflHmPqbrDm0n7ss3FP-0J9Hi8T_Go8ZXtj3kiuXK921Dqz50dANPNSWpSfTxlUOlFwq25cdk/s1600-h/ThreeOaksDepot.jpg.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 261px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5308337581210893154" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeO3GQpRpbdrfzwHDC3lWdIDR5Dkfw4UavBnsSiWsUuKieiSBflzGJtIL40TG1C5SMdgsAflHmPqbrDm0n7ss3FP-0J9Hi8T_Go8ZXtj3kiuXK921Dqz50dANPNSWpSfTxlUOlFwq25cdk/s320/ThreeOaksDepot.jpg.JPG" /></a><br /><div><span style="font-size:180%;color:#ff0000;">I am looking forward to the spring months</span> so that I can drive the Clenet all over Harbor Country, Michigan. The Clenet lives in Harbor Country as Mario and I feel it's the better area to garage it. We have become somewhat local celeb's as we motor about the communities of New Buffalo, Michicana, Lakeside, Union Pier, Harbert and Sawyer in the Clenet. With Mario being a Realtor in Harbor Country, he is well known in the business community. He also serves on the Chikaming Township Planning Committee, so more of the locals are familiar with him as well.<br /><br />Most people identify the Clenet as being Mario's car as he has more opportunity to drive it than I do, given that I live in Chicago Monday through Friday afternoon. Every so often when I'm behind the wheel, someone toots their horn or wave and shout "hey Mario!" I merely wave and motor along, enjoying the view from behind that long hood!<br /><br />Speaking of Harbor Country and the communities that comprise the Southwest Michigan area, the local Realtors have teamed up to host a HUGE open house event. It's called: HarborCountryOpenHouse and has it's own website where you can learn more information.<br /><br />In any case, here's what I know:<br />HarborCountryOpenHouse event on April 25th<br />Over 100 homes will be open to prospective buyers.<br />12:00 noon - 4:00 pm - maps available.<br />After the open house event, there are after-parties at the Round Barn Winery and St. Julian Winery in Union Pier, just off Exit 6 on Union Pier Road. Admission to either after-party is by invitation from your realtor. If you are not working with a realtor, you can contact my brother Mario Zarantenello by going to his website: <a href="http://www.ask4mario.com/">http://www.ask4mario.com/</a> to get more information.<br /><br />Mario is not only by brother, but he is also my Harbor Country Realtor and found me the perfect Weekend House in Three Oaks about two years ago. I now spend all of my weekends in Three Oaks, being a short 75 minute drive from my Chicago nieghborhood, Sandburg Village in the Gold Coast.<br /><br />So come out and perhaps you'll see me cruising all over Harbor Country in our Clenet during the HarborCountryOpenHouse event!<br />rz</div>Ronhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06836828895863532196noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4408675444836891558.post-21555522759325346642009-02-22T11:31:00.004-06:002009-02-22T14:09:28.857-06:00Winter Updates...<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiI_rcmgTFz9SAO6YLljD_zoNxjYz8RH6E6d1JrzwacoxR_b5fLKleIAWi-M2zFRPKKNjyKL9qixUvtpuQIIWFUesP0y_8Mzx03rnC4qvPbdA9SPtpcfP9LVSRkkhfAOfHvj_soFCYveT_y/s1600-h/S4300031.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5305716360095677282" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 150px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiI_rcmgTFz9SAO6YLljD_zoNxjYz8RH6E6d1JrzwacoxR_b5fLKleIAWi-M2zFRPKKNjyKL9qixUvtpuQIIWFUesP0y_8Mzx03rnC4qvPbdA9SPtpcfP9LVSRkkhfAOfHvj_soFCYveT_y/s200/S4300031.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><div><span style="font-size:180%;color:#ff0000;">T</span>he Clenet has been getting some updates over the long winter hibernation, one being swapping out the vinyl spare tire cover with an original metal cover painted to match the fenders. We found one through fellow Clenet enthusiast Len in Washington State. When Clenet did a two-tone paint scheme, typically the spare tire cover matches the fenders along with the interior and top. Given our car has a red leather interior, we chose to repaint the fenders red which gives the car a new look without any of that 70's garishness some manufacturers chose to do.<br /><br />The three-piece cover arrived primed and ready for paint about three weeks ago. Mario and I took the cover to the bodyshop in Union Pier where the car was repaired compliments of last summer's collision. Mike at the shop had copious amounts of paint leftover from the fender repair/repaint and we gave him the task of painting the cover.<br /><br />Mario retrieved the painted cover a few days ago with the intention of us installing it onto the spare tire this weekend. The car is currently at Ken's house instead of the garage we are borrowing for the winter in Lakeside. At my request, Mario brought the car to Ken's last Sunday during a mild sunny winter morning. Within hours of Ken and I taking the car out for a winter drive, Lake Michigan coupled with western winds brought us heavy lake-effect snow that caused us to quickly abandon our jaunt and get the car out of the falling snow. There wasn't any time to return to Lakeside. The XK8 was quickly removed from its winter storage and the Clenet now has that space. No worries, we took the XK8 to Lakeside where it will remain until the roads are clear and the two cars can be swapped back.<br /><br />Friday evening, Mario and I ducked into the garage to install the tire cover while Ken was preparing dinner. I removed the original vinyl tire cover to test-fit the new hard-shell cover. We were both very perplexed when the cover would not fit over the spare tire. Everything we tried, including letting the air out of the spare kept us from getting the cover over the tire. Darn it! The tires we had installed last summer are obviously just a bit larger than the originally fitted tires. Being disappointed, we decided to reconvene Saturday morning to address the problem.<br /><br />After breakfast the next morning, Mario and I removed the spare wheel from the car and took it and the new tire cover to Sears in Michigan City to purchase a replacement spare tire. The goal was to find a new tire that would fit into the hard shell that was a similar in size to the Coker's on the car.<br /><br />About a hundred dollars and two hours later, we now have a spare tire mounted on the wire wheel that allows us to utilize the new cover. The red cover completes the new two-tone paint scheme and gives the rear end a more substantial look.<br /><br />The next addition will be hand-painted gray pinstripes along the fenders and encircling the spare tire cover to balance the gray body color.</div>Ronhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06836828895863532196noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4408675444836891558.post-41971316124183673922009-02-09T10:19:00.003-06:002009-02-11T11:02:29.011-06:00Sunday, February 8, 2009<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_4dbv5yKo-JAnzfzdHfFz-kU74T89kwKgnvEQFxkRUF3aXzXmK5TqaN1Xd6_AoNednt6MTepkEWzF001krPazLGtCjkGxBeARBSGkOWmgZOfcSfwXpf_KeLDC1Ixb59Mdp3Z8YMyuybye/s1600-h/Lakeshore+Rd+()+026.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5301586150154489634" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 113px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_4dbv5yKo-JAnzfzdHfFz-kU74T89kwKgnvEQFxkRUF3aXzXmK5TqaN1Xd6_AoNednt6MTepkEWzF001krPazLGtCjkGxBeARBSGkOWmgZOfcSfwXpf_KeLDC1Ixb59Mdp3Z8YMyuybye/s200/Lakeshore+Rd+()+026.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div>The weekend in S.W. Michigan was very warm by February temperature averages. Saturday brought us much needed temps hovering around sixty degrees and into the fifties on Sunday. I was able to take my XK8 out on Saturday, with the convertible top lowered. I finally washed the car outside to remove some road-film that accumulated back in November when I parked it for the winter months.<br /><br />Sunday afternoon with its bright sunshine gave Mario and I the opportunity to drive the Clenet. We originally visited the garage where it is stored to test and replace a tail lamp that didn't illuminate last weekend after reattaching the lamp assemblies. I prayed the problem would only be the bulb as neither Mario or I wanted to attempt removing the assembly and wiring. Copious amounts of RTV sealant were used on the underside to keep the wiring and assembly free of water.<br /><br />We arrived with new bulbs and removed the red lens. The light illuminated as it should and we both were very relieved that additional work was not required. I opened the overhead door and we both looked at each other and said in unison...Hey, let's take it out!<br /><br />I drove up the Red Arrow Highway from Lakeside to Sawyer where we topped-off the tank. I told Mario to take over behind the wheel and we jumped onto Interstate 94 for a few miles. We continued the hour-long journey, picking clear streets to motor along.<br /><br />This little jaunt did wonders to lift my spirit, especially seeing the looks and reactions from oncoming drivers and their passengers.<br /><br />We had fun.</div>Ronhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06836828895863532196noreply@blogger.com0