Too Ambitious, Too Simple-Minded
Monday, 25Feb08 (1948hrs/est):
Well, I certainly bit off more than I could chew...
The trip started in the rain on Wed in the AM, and ended in a snowstorm on Friday in the PM. In between we had wet snow (Arizona), freezing rain (Texas & Oklahoma), fog & rain (Arkansas).
Got to see the rig on Friday afternoon. Was able to ascertain exactly what the chassis is.
1983 International 1854 4x4 170"wb. DTI-466B Turbo Diesel. MT-643 Allison Auto. 15x22.5's all around. Less than 12K miles. Service bed is 8'W x 12'L - w/ two large (1'D) steps off the back. The front frame-horns stick out another 2'. Seats three in the cab, and two more alongside the engine housing out back.
Went on up to NY, and crashed on my Dad's sofa. Took the weekend to unwind and track down some assistance.
GVRW = 27,320; requires CDL, in CA., of which I do not possess.
Registration, in CA: = $800 (+/-) - which would be for only a few months.
Gearing; great for off-road, but very challenged at highway speeds (which means a looooong trip to CA).
Other issues;
Insurance = $180 (down payment) - new - separate - policy, since it's "Commercial".
"In-Transit Plate" quote, from Notary in PA = $120.
Batteries = $110ea x 2 (new). But, will get two, new, "blems" for $110 (total). > Group 31/ 925CCA <
Headlights/ signals = $180...
Bumper = ??? (stopped asking)...
Will have it put on a lowboy, and hauled up to my friend's home in NY.
Cost? Less than $600.
Sometimes, I just have to try and do it the HARD WAY. It's been a learning experience, to say the least. The trip was worth it, since I get to spend over a week with my (elderly) dad.
My friend (30-yr diesel mechanic) says it's worth every penny I have spent (and wasted). I won't chamge anything on the rig, except the fluids. It is just as I need it to be outfitted. Except for, maybe, a big winch...
Truly, the only heavy expense will be new tires - which I expected. We'll keep it in NY, until we are ready to go to CR. Then. we'll take it to NJ, and put it on a ship.
Our roadtrip back West will be a bit more relaxed. Maybe a four day trip, instead of 52 hours...
p.s. (thanks for all of the support and offers of assistance)
- Wm.