Alaska attempt daily report

[Old Henry]

My journey has begun. Since several expressed some interest in it, I thought I'd post a daily report of my progress.

I finally finished rebuilding and rewiring my headlights and drove to where I could aim them at 1:30 A.M. this morning. Slept from 2 - 7 then got up, feeling drugged, and finished up all other last minute preparations and started off today at 10:45 A.M. We made it to Butte, Montana just after sundown, 450 miles. I let Siri take me to the nearest camp ground. He took me to the KOA. I asked for a tent site without power. They were going to charge me $36.00 for one. I was obviously displeased and ready to leave and head for the Motel 6. They then upgraded me to a cabin for the same price so I'm happy.

Here's the map of our planned route showing Butte that we made it to so far.



Interactive map you can zoom in on here: https://goo.gl/maps/YPZTKvV7YW72

No problems at all with the car today. The only mechanical problems were the batteries powering the headphone amp that boosts the signal from my mp3 player to the radio speaker went dead. So, I was stuck listening to the soft rumble of the engine, the soothing whir of the tires, and the pleasing swoosh of the air passing by the open window for 9 hours. Actually, not bad at all. I quite enjoyed it.

The other problem was that the software on my laptop that was supposed to record the entire trip and all statistics about it so that I could play it back at the end of each day to review turned out to be unreliable. In shorter trial runs, it had continued to record even after prolonged stops. But today, if I stopped too long, it lost the prior recording and started over from where we were. So, "Johnny 5" (the robot from Short Circuit) did not get his insatiable appetite for "input" satisfied today.

Speeds averaged 60-65 mph, temperatures from 49-61 degrees F, and altitudes from 4500-6500 feet.

I planned to stay in Dillon, Montana tonight, which would have been 390 miles for the day, close to my budget of 400 per day, but the sun was still shining when we got there so we went another hour to Butte. At this rate, I may finish early (if I finish at all) or, I may take some longer, slower, more scenic routes and stop more to see, photograph, and videotape stuff.

Spending the day on the freeway was not conducive to photography. It was not like the little two-lanes that I can stop on a dime any time to take pictures or do a quick U-turn to video. I'll be glad when I get off the freeways to get some pictures and video.

Here are the only two pictures I took speeding along the freeway of little Lady in a couple of her favorite travel postures. Watching the computer does the same for her as it does for me - puts us to sleep.

[Alaska Jim]

Where in Alaska are you headed?

[A bones]

Thanks for the report. You know I'd love to be doing just that; listening to the rumble of the engine and, the whir of the tires. Yesterday I surrendered my CDL due to my eyes not working like they used to. No regrets though, I had plenty of thrills while trucking. Always considered myself to be a paid tourist.

Here's to the back roads may they all be downhill.

[colin1928]

thanks for the post waiting for the next

[turnpikecrusier]

We all are going to enjoy your trip!

[corvette8n]

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Sounds like a good start, can't wait to see the video/pictures. Do you have a pre-trip checklist?.

[Cecil/WV]

Good start!

[JSeery]

So far so good, best of luck on the trip.

[Ol' Ron]

I feel like I'm sitting in the back seat enjoying the ride. Thanks, and good luck.

[flatheadv8]

Thank you so much for sharing your trip. I too feel like I am riding along in the back seat and couldn't resist saying, "Are we there yet!" LOL... Have a safe trip and please do share some pics. Love em'!

[Barry-ct]

Can't wait for the latest travelog, wish I was there with you!

[BUBBAS IGNITION]

Have a good trip.!!!

[gmanrides]

Subscribed! looking forward to the journey. Enjoy!

[RalphM]

Originally Posted by Alaska Jim

Where in Alaska are you headed?

I was hoping to see Ol Henry in the Interior, but I think his plan is to drive to Haines(which is not REALLY part of Alaska , it doesn't even get cold there)

I had to get that in there Professor, seriously I think it's a great journey you have embarked on and I will be patiently waiting for your daily updates.
All the best of luck, and post some photos.

[Old Henry]

Originally Posted by RalphM

I was hoping to see Ol Henry in the Interior, but I think his plan is to drive to Haines(which is not REALLY part of Alaska , it doesn't even get cold there)

I had to get that in there Professor, seriously I think it's a great journey you have embarked on and I will be patiently waiting for your daily updates.
All the best of luck, and post some photos.

I'm headed for Skagway. Here's the map:



Interactive map: https://goo.gl/maps/tnjB1k2tgND2

And here are a couple of pictures of "Ol Henry in the Interior" with little Lady in some of her traveling postures. Watching the computer does the same thing to her as it does to me, puts us to sleep.

[36coupe]

Great adventure.
I wonder how far I could make it in the 38 with mechical brakes?

[Cool Kat with Hot Car]

Love your adventuresome spirit. The open road and our rural country, especially when viewed from a good old Ford V8, are something to be treasured. Have a safe and fun trip. Good luck to you and Old Henry.

[KiWinUS]

Safe travels , keep up the great work posting !!
Cheers
Tony

[Bored&Stroked]

We're all going with you . . . so you better have room in the back seat!

Be safe and enjoy every day!

D

[Steve Staysko]

Welcome to Canada and if you have any problems around Calgary please call me.

[Admiral]

Originally Posted by 36coupe

Great adventure.
I wonder how far I could make it in the 38 with mechical brakes?

If it's in good mechanical condition, as far as you'd like. These old Fords are rugged, built to run on rough roads in difficult conditions.

Keep us posted, Old Henry! Love these driving adventures.

[Tinker]

Safe travels

[flatford8]

Good luck on your adventure!!!.... As I've said after veiwing each of your adventures, I always feel like I should be chipping in for gas.......Mark

[jim1932]

MY SUGGESTION....which should be promptly ignored.... would be to drive to Bellingham and grab a Blue Canoe...ferry

[41ford1]

Enjoy the adventure. Please keep us posted. The road trips are always fun. Just did one to Williamsburg, VA from Manchveagas, NH and back. Just a short haul compared to yours.
The picture is along the Yorktown to Jamestown parkway.

[flat-v8]

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Awesome, I love tuning in for your road trips, stories and pictures, it's a virtual reality vacation for me!

[GB SISSON]

Take the I5 exit to San Juan Islands and Burlington. We'll recharge your breathing machine and anything else that needs it. Wish I was along for the ride...... Believe me we are all drop frikken dead envious of your trips!!

[Alaska Jim]

I was kind of hoping you were headed towards Anchorage.

[Old Redneck]

You are doing what most of us dream of doing but don't have the nerve or funds to do. Wish I was with you doing this adventure. Thanks for showing us.

[Cecil/WV]

Originally Posted by 36coupe

Great adventure.
I wonder how far I could make it in the 38 with mechical brakes?

If you brakes are like the '38 I used to own, there would be nothing to stop you!

[tubman]

Originally Posted by Cecil/WV

If you brakes are like the '38 I used to own, there would be nothing to stop you!

I think I know what you're trying to say, but this can be taken in two very different ways!

[Old Henry]

DAY 2

Sorry for the late report. I was too exhausted last night to do anything but climb in bed.

We made it another 338 miles to Fort MacLeod, AB by way of Glacier National Park, total of 790 miles so far, pretty close to my budget of 400 miles per day.

I was sure glad the KOA put me in a camping cabin instead of my tent as it was 31 degrees in the morning. Not too cold to sleep in but kinda nippy for getting dressed in.



From Butte we headed up the freeway until our first chance to get off of it and out into the country. That was Montana Highway 287 from the freeway to where it connected to US 89 to Glacier National Park. I've got to say that that 140 mile stretch of highway is one of the most uniquely scenic in all that I've driven in the U.S. It's gently undulating terrain covered with emerald grass should have been marked as a scenic byway if not an All American Road in my opinion.

When I was about to stop and take pictures of the most scenic spots I realized that those were the exact same spots AnnaRae and I stopped and photographed three years ago on our anniversary trip. To save time I'll share those again.





Approaching Agusta.



In Agusta it started to rain. I was glad that I had refreshed my Rain-X treatment on the windshield for those occasions that the wipers did not move ascending inclines.



Eventually the temperature dropped to 34 degrees and the rain turned to snow. The Rain-X didn't help much with snow.



Eventually, we arrived at Glacier National Park. We were only able to drive up 12 miles of the Going to the Sun highway but that drive was well worth it. The scenery at any time of year, including winter snow falling, is breathtaking. And the fresh smell of pine trees - - never smelled it stronger. Simply invigorating!

St. Mary's Lake with Goose Nest Island.



Mountain Peaks reaching above the clouds.





And eventually the end of the road.



Within an hour we crossed the border into Canada and headed north to our Motel in Fort MacLeod.



I was sure glad to get off of the freeway so that I could stop and "smell the roses" whenever I wanted to. I was also glad I installed a 12 volt power socket, not only to keep my laptop going but I also needed to charge my cell phone and mp3 player as we went along. I took a lot of great video that I'll produce and share when I get home.

[melisa]

Super! What a trip, wish mine was ready. Have a safe and great trip. Melisa

[Old Henry]

Originally Posted by Redneck

You are doing what most of us dream of doing but don't have the nerve or funds to do. Wish I was with you doing this adventure. Thanks for showing us.

Originally Posted by GB SISSON

Wish I was along for the ride...... Believe me we are all drop frikken dead envious of your trips!!

I am very grateful that life circumstances has allowed me this experience. I wish all of you could come along with me. I guess that's why I make so much effort to share with you. In a way, it's like having you along. I'm constantly watching for things I think you would enjoy.

[Mart]

Prof, we appreciate the effort very much and do feel as if we are riding along with you.

Thanks.

Mart.

[bigdoor]

boy this back seat is getting full thanks for picking me up

[RalphM]

Are we there yet?

[petehoovie]

Damn!!!....I envy you, Craig!

[Legends47]

Watching, riding along and enjoying another one of your great trips. Thank you for taking us along with you!!

[VeryTangled]

Wow I don't want to get this off topic. Thanks Craig! Have a fun and safe time on the highways!

But I can just hear it from the crowded back seat!

Daaaaad! Steve is touching me!!!

I gotta pee!

I see a Tennessee license plate, put that down!

[scicala]

Originally Posted by 41ford1

Enjoy the adventure. Please keep us posted. The road trips are always fun. Just did one to Williamsburg, VA from Manchveagas, NH and back. Just a short haul compared to yours.
The picture is along the Yorktown to Jamestown parkway.

41ford1, Lovin' you're Courier !

Sal

[flat-v8]

Holy cow, those pictures are post card worthy! Really Cool, thanks for posting!

[gmanrides]

Thanks for sharing, awesome pictures!

[Binx]

Originally Posted by Old Henry

I am very grateful that life circumstances has allowed me this experience. I wish all of you could come along with me. I guess that's why I make so much effort to share with you. In a way, it's like having you along. I'm constantly watching for things I think you would enjoy.

That's a very gracious thing to say. Thanks for that Craig!

It put a big smile on my face and inspired me.

Lonnie

[Ol' Ron]

I really enjoy riding with you. I like the conversations you have with your dog. I told mine everything, sure miss him. Drive careful, I'm still sitting back here.
Ol Ron

[colin1928]

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Great photos as long as your trip last it will the 1st thread I read
THANKS

[Old Redneck]

I started the 39 yesterday and charge the battery so today I am going for a ride down through the hill of W.V. with my dog. Rain or shine we are going. I got up at 430 AM to get ready. My dog don't think much like getting up that early. He tried to bite me. Maybe I will take the wife, she don't bite.

[funrunr]

Glad you have a fordor, I just got in and it's crowded back here but I refuse to leave the adventure. Safe travels and thank you for allowing us to join.

[Shogun1940]

Do not let the dog off a leash,, the brakes are the most important part of the car,, Calgary up past the Rockies is great.. Alaska roads are good. Orange cones mean slow down. Animal of all sizes will come out of no where.

[51504bat]

Within an hour we crossed the border into Canada and headed north to our Motel in Fort MacLeod.

I take it you had no issues crossing the border with Little Lady? Always enjoy your travel posts and photos. In fact I use the photo you posted of your old house in the snow as the background on my laptop.

Have a safe trip.

[39topless]

Does little Lady have a passport? Hope they let you back into the US.
Thanks for the adventure.

[ookpik]

I you need , you have a friend in Whitehorse.

[woodiewagon46]

Henry, I am jealous of you. My wife and I did a cross country trip in 2010 from Long Island NY to Encinetas CA in our '46 wagon, for the Wavecrest "Woodie" show. One thing I picked up in your initial post was something about a headphone amp. Be careful, many areas do not allow headphones, when driving for safety reasons. Keep documenting your trip!!!

[tamnalan]

Some of the Montana views of the Rockies to the west off highway 287, especially near the intersection with MT 200, must be almost exactly what Lewis saw on his return trip in July 1806. It's one of the few remaining places on the Lewis and Clark route that hasn't changed from human activity, IMHO.

[tamnalan]

A suggestion is to ride the White Pass railway to Skagway. It's an amazing trip! There's probably round-trip opportunities from either Whitehorse or Skagway. There's also some amazing stuff to see at the Whitehorse airport. A DC3 is setup as a large weathervane, and there's also some sort of huge orange Army off-road prototype parked nearby.

[Old Henry]

Day 3

What a day! Thirteen hours in the saddle wears on a guy. 486 miles driven but only 352 count since I went 67 miles the wrong direction and had to come back that far to get back on the route. Just one of my SHE problems for the day.

Here's how far we've come so far, 1,855 miles.



From Fort MacLeod we headed north to Calgary then west to Banff National Park.

I had developed a little bounce in the back end so stopped to get the back wheels balanced at the only tire store in some little town along the way. They didn't have space inside the garage to help me so did it by the side of the garage.



I started getting a little tendonitis in my left wrist from the way I drive with it alone. Had to start modifying my approach to steering.



I stopped for gas in Calgary and let the dog out on the leash in the back seat, put her back in, put the leash in the back, and shut the back door, or, so I thought. When we started picking up speed I heard wind noise behind my left ear. I turned and saw the door open a crack, and, the instant I saw it the door flew open and whacked against the side of the car and fender denting the fender and the belt trim in and pulling the sheet metal out where the hinge hit it. My first SHE problem for the day.



I just wish it had been the first time but it was not. All the time I was growing up with this car there was always a dent in the fender and trim from multiple hits. Just a few months ago my granddaughter didn't shut the door tight and it caught the wind and slammed against the car, not quite as bad, it only dented the fender, not the trim nor pull the sheet metal out. I got my sledge hammer and pounded the dent back out from underneath and, in fact, the morning I left for this trip I dobbed some touch up paint there where some was off.

I had to do a little body work prying with a big screw driver and pounding with the hammer to get the metal back in place enough for the door to open and close. Then, a touch of duct tape over the exposed Bondo and I was "on the road again." I wish that had been my last SHE problem for the day.



From there we headed for Banff National Park and the famous Lake Louise. I have to say that I was somewhat disappointed and frustrated with that experience.

As we drove into the park, there was a lot of particulate in the air (haze) and the majestic mountain peaks were far from the road, unlike Glacier National Park which is much more "intimate" for the driver. Then there was the highway through the park. It was the Trans-Canadian Highway - a freeway all the way. No quick stops for a picture. So, most of the views are by video that I'll produce and share when I get home.

Then, at the famous Lake Louise, I couldn't get Old Henry close enough to the lake to get his picture so had to make my first attempt at a "selfie". How did I do? No, my face is not photogenic enough so this is the best you get.



Next came my next SHE problem.

At Lake Louise, we were supposed to leave the freeway to head north to Jasper National Park. Well, somehow I missed that and didn't realize it for 67 miles until I saw a sign saying 10 km to Golden. I knew Golden was not where we were supposed to be headed so stopped and checked the map realized the freeway exit I missed.

It wasn't a total waste since I did find one place to pull off the freeway and actually get the car near the river for a shot of it with a lofty mountain peak above it.



What I found out when I finally got back and took the exit I missed was that the Provicial Highway through Jasper National Park was a two lane that I could stop and take some pictures. And, the scenery was much more impressive. By then it was getting late in the day and I was mad at myself for having missed this great route during the sunny part of the day. However, the low light created some very dramatic scenes.









I was now two hours behind schedule so I was hurrying to get to somewhere to stay for the night. In my hurry, I neglected to stop for gas at 1/2 tank that I'd been trying to do and it looked like I was going to run out before I got to the next gas station and I'd have to put gas in from the can in the trunk. I hate that. Fortunately, I made it to an out-of-the-way place and pain $1.34 per liter of gas. It was starting to get dark and it was still an hour and a half to Jasper so I checked on the rooms they had there. They wanted $100.00 for my and $40.00 for little Lady. I couldn't stomach that so headed on to Jasper.

Most of the way I had no cell phone service so had no way of knowing what accommodations might be in Jasper. When I finally got service, I checked for pet friendly motels and they were all over $100. So, I googled camping and, low and behold, there was a camp ground just ahead within a kilometer. It was, in fact, a national park campground where I got a nice tent sight for $20.

It was midnight by the time I climbed into the sleeping bag with little lady. The car battery with the extra 6 volt battery connected in parallel during the day to charge ran the 400 watt inverter just fine over night when reconnected in series with it.



S.H.E. = Stupid Human Error

[woodiewagon46]

Henry, 725 miles in 13 hours, man you are giving that little flathead a workout. Slow down and take it all in! Sorry to see your mishap but these are the things one encounters on road trips. Did you know that Ford offered "Automatic Rear Door Safety Locks" in '46 for exactly this problem. Glad to see that it didn't stop your trip. We had planned on doing some camping on our cross-country trip until a Tarantula as big as my hand crawled out from under our car. One of the other guests saw it and said "it's the snakes and scorpions you need to worry about". Well that ended any camping thoughts we had.

[Old Henry]

Received a PM with this question:

"I see in your picture of your front seat on your Alaska trip you have a lap top, are you able to charge it with your 6volt positive ground?"

I do still have original 6 volt positive ground. I needed more amps to charge my laptop computer than the usual 6-12 volt inverter provides that converts the positive ground to negative ground. So, instead, I used a 6-12 volt booster.



Available here: http://www.amazon.com/Voltage-Booste.../dp/B004P9IS3I

But, with that booster that's made to boost 6 volt negative ground to 12 volt negative ground I couldn't use the car body for ground nor mount the booster to come in contact with any metal of the car. So, I ran the ground wire for the booster and power socket directly from the negative post on the battery and the positive wire directly from the positive post. And, I mounted the booster on an angle iron attached to the side of the glove box but away from the box as the booster gets real hot and I didn't want to catch the box on fire. Works great.

[Old Henry]

Originally Posted by 39topless

Does little Lady have a passport? Hope they let you back into the US.
Thanks for the adventure.

They didn't ask anything about the dog, just whether I had anything that could hurt anyone.

I have every paper I've ever had on the dog in case they want to see it coming back.

[Old Henry]

Originally Posted by VeryTangled

Wow I don't want to get this off topic. Thanks Craig! Have a fun and safe time on the highways!

But I can just hear it from the crowded back seat!

Daaaaad! Steve is touching me!!!

I gotta pee!

I see a Tennessee license plate, put that down!

Don't make me stop this car and come back there!

[petehoovie]

Bummer about the ding....But, how is 'Old Henry' running?

[Ol' Ron]

Boy Henry, It's getting crowed back here. Whis I couda caught that door, ut i was watching the road on Google earth. Time to put another thumb tac on the map.

[Old Redneck]

That seams to be a normal thing with a ford the rear door kissing the rear fender. My uncle Mercury did that when his son open the rear door while the car was going down the road. Mu uncle warm his butt for doing that trick. Keep th pictures rolling in. I sure do enjoy them. My wife hid the car keys from me today. So I had to stay home today and wash the dishes again. I am going to buy her a one way bus ticket to Alaska.

[Newc]

The Military Vehicle Club made an Al/Can anniversary tour, and reported locally that every Chinese- made inner tube used Failed!!! Keep the cell phone charged. Newc

[koates]

Hi Craig, Yes I am really enjoying your great drive down here in Melbourne, Australia. Your photos are just beautiful. Give puppy a pat for me. Gods speed and safe driving. Best regards, Kevin.

[fordv8j]

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If your mechanical brakes are like the ones on my 38 coupe,you would make it all the way cause you couldn't stop

[tamnalan]

Originally Posted by Newc

The Military Vehicle Club made an Al/Can anniversary tour, and reported locally that every Chinese- made inner tube used Failed!!! Keep the cell phone charged. Newc

I was on the MVPA 2012 Alaska Highway convoy. I drove a 1943 Willys MB (a wartime jeep). I don't recall problems with Chinese tubes in particular but we did have a lot of flats. There was another group that summer too. We MVPA guys had about 100 vintage vehicles. I think the other group was a little smaller. Maybe they reported the tubes problem.

[tamnalan]

The haze in the parks might be coming from the Fort McMurray fires.

[Old Henry]

Originally Posted by petehoovie

Bummer about the ding....But, how is 'Old Henry' running?

I hope I don't get jinxed by saying that Old Henry couldn't be better, not even a cough, sneeze, nor hiccup. If I could just pull my share of the load guiding him and taking care of him as well as he carries and takes care of me, we'd be a whole lot better off.

Now, to jinx the jinx so it won't bother me, I will remind about the two rear tires that needed balanced and I noticed Thursday that the parking lights weren't on when I thought they should be. Probably something to do with the 69 year old wiring I'm still using.

There. Now I've said it. I hope he keeps going as well as he has so far.

[Old Henry]

Originally Posted by tamnalan

I was on the MVPA 2012 Alaska Highway convoy. I drove a 1943 Willys MB (a wartime jeep). I don't recall problems with Chinese tubes in particular but we did have a lot of flats. There was another group that summer too. We MVPA guys had about 100 vintage vehicles. I think the other group was a little smaller. Maybe they reported the tubes problem.

Since I put liners on all of my wheels, the flats haven't happened like they used to.

[Fortunateson]

This is fun. I ember as a kid Travelling to Lake Louise and the glacier was right down to the water line. No so much anymore. If you are landing to drive into Skagway your brakes are going to get a real workout! Down gearing will be your friend. Good luck and be safe. Pet your dog for me.

[mhsprecher]

As always, your photos are stunning.

[Graeme / New Zealand]

Great Craig ! If there's no room left in the back i'll ride in the trunk. Skagway eh? The first time I heard of that place was when we read Jack Londons "Call of the Wild" at High School. The scenery is breath taking as usual. John Steinbeck wrote "travelling with Charlie" , reckon you could write "Travelling with Henry."

take care

GB

[Lawrie]

Graig, your trips and comontary are WAY. Better than anything on nat geo channel, I wish I had your laid back attitude,we are awY in our model A and after 1600 klms the cam gear got noisey,so we headed back towards home,after driving 550 klms it went quiet,so we turned around and kept going.we are of to darwin,a 3200 klm trip. But man it's hot,no snow on our trip.
We are only travelling about 450 klms per day.
Take care and need we say it enjoy yourself.
Lawrie

[Old Henry]

Originally Posted by woodiewagon46

Henry, 725 miles in 13 hours, man you are giving that little flathead a workout. Slow down and take it all in! Sorry to see your mishap but these are the things one encounters on road trips. Did you know that Ford offered "Automatic Rear Door Safety Locks" in '46 for exactly this problem. Glad to see that it didn't stop your trip. We had planned on doing some camping on our cross-country trip until a Tarantula as big as my hand crawled out from under our car. One of the other guests saw it and said "it's the snakes and scorpions you need to worry about". Well that ended any camping thoughts we had.

I just realized that my Google Maps on my computer with which I calculated the mileage had switched automatically to kilometers instead of miles. So, Friday I only drove 352 miles plus the extra 134 out of the way. So, total of 486 rather than the 725 I'd said. Just one more SHE problem that looks like are going to plague my life on the road as they do off the road.

[ccnelson]

Another passenger in the back seat. Loving this trip and the scenery. Thanks again for taking us along.

[Old Henry]

Day 4

A little shorter run today. I spent quite a bit of time in the morning reporting the previous day through the national parks. Total of 325 miles today, total of 1,431 miles so far.



Today started on my favorite kind of road that we'll be on clear to Alaska and beyond, a lonely two lane gently rolling and curving over the terrain. Not a lot of variety but still very pleasing and comfortable.

This is pretty much how it will look for the next several days.



We see this kind of sign at the beginning of the long stretches. I need them. One of my weaknesses is that I don't watch the gas gauge close enough.



The temperature warmed up so I could open the window again. It makes for a better angle for my wrist so I don't get the tendonitis.



Note the bugs on the vent window. They were pretty heavy. Rain-X didn't help much with them on the windshield.



Nor the front of the car.



Sometimes the little girly dog likes to just lay right at my hip and rest her head on my thigh.



When I was climbing a long hill I started to get a little pinging, which is very rare. I glanced over at the altimeter and it showed 500 something (meters - 1500+ feet). That's getting down to where the air is thick and causes that pinging. I may need to retard my timing a little. More likely, if it's only occasionally, I'll just nudge the choke out a little temporarily until it's gone on the climb.

Eventually, we arrived at Dawson Creek which is the beginning of the Alaska-Canadian Highway the will take us there.

[RalphM]

Yea, the bugs can get pretty thick up here. A lot of travelers of the alcan put window screen material over their grill for the trip. You don't have to clean as much off, and they can get so bad as to clog your radiator and effect cooling.
Loving the trip, I see that you posted another " Interior" shot for me.

[Ronnie]

Buy some Sea Foam Bugs Be Gone .
https://seafoamsales.com/bugs-b-gone/

Crazy good

R

[Bolts]

Really loving the trip Professor. Those pictures of the mountains outside Jasper are nothing less than spectacular. Glad Old Henry is cooperating. Best wishes as you push on.

[Mike in AZ]

Thot that SHE meant Stuff Happens, Eh....in Canada, of course.....love the trip....thanks for allowing us along for the ride.....Mike

[36tudordeluxe]

Professor, thanks for allowing me to ride along with you on this great adventure! I'll be checking for the latest post.

[GB SISSON]

Are we there yet? I'm in the back seat with the others. What kind of camera are you using? Amazing photos.

[50fordcoupeman]

Enjoying your trip!! The northwest is a beautiful place to live if one likes mountains and water. My great grandparents lived near/in Calgary. I remember going the world famous Calgary Stampede when I was about 5 or 6. We lived in Spokane WA then. Thanks for taking the time for sharing.

[Old Henry]

Day 5

Short drive today, only 282 miles, 1,698 so far.



I spent the morning in church with a little congregation of 50 in attendance. It was fun associating with them and learning some "Canadian", like "aboot" for "about", "sory" for "sorry", "oat" for "out", and a lot of "eh?" at the end of sentences. Of course, they treated me like a celebrity since I sang in what President Reagan called "America's Choir", the Mormon Tabernacle Choir, and just because of the car that had come such a long way in so short a time. One of the members gave me two buckets of fresh honey from his hives, one for someone he promised one to in the town next to mine and one for me. He said the "Peace Valley" honey was world renown as the best honey in the world. So, I didn't get on the road until almost 3:00 p.m.

The rest of my journey began at mile marker 0 smack dab in the middle of Dawson Creek, the official and historical beginning of the Al-Can highway that, as the sign says, runs 1,523 miles to Fairbanks.



Then we were back out on the road through the wilderness.



Eventually, we were driving through an area of forest fire with fire not far from the road. It really hazed everything over. The smell of the burning trees was, of course, very strong.



It colored the sunlight orange that turned the light colors in our interior more orange.



Our lowest elevation today was 312 meters, or 1,023 feet.



Something I forgot to mention about the lower elevation yesterday is the very pleasant surprise of a boost of power in the engine. It was especially noticeable when climbing hills and accelerating. I almost envied all of you that get to drive flatheads near sea level all the time.

No, it wasn't that extra power used for a burst of speed that lead to this.



I stopped at this spot to take a picture of this stretch of road. As I usually do to get this kind of shot, I walked back up hill a couple hundred feet for the shot. Then, I saw this truck coming the other direction and decided to wait until it passed so I wouldn't have to Photoshop it out. Well, as it got closer and closer it got slower and slower until it looked like it was going to stop when it turned on its overhead police lights, did a U-turn, an pulled up behind the car. I was so far up the hill from the car that he didn't even know I was there. I was certainly curious what he was going to do next. Get out and ask little Lady for her license? Of course, she would be able to give it to him because she has no opposing thumb to take it off of her collar.

But, he just sat there for the longest time while I got this and other pictures of him. Eventually, he got out and headed up to my car. I yelled down at him, "Hey, I'm trying to take a picture and you're in the way." He was pretty startled to turn around and see me way back there. He was immediately apologetic, jumped in his truck, did a U-turn, drove up to across the road from me, got out with his camera and came over for my photography lesson about the great picture that can be taken under those circumstances. Of course, he had some fancy huge DSLR camera, and to get anything like the pictures I took with my little point a shoot had to go back to his truck and get his long telephoto lens and put it on his camera. We had a nice visit, he went on his way, and I finally got the picture I stopped to get.



Of course, the bugs continued to pile on.



When we got to Fort Nelson, I knew we were about two hundred miles behind our schedule, not that it was too big a deal, but I've scheduled two extra "emergency days" in the itinerary in case I have to sit and wait for a part to be flown in or something and don't really want to use it up lolly-gagging. It was only 9:00 and the sun was still shining. So, I wanted to do another hour to get a little further along. But, we're to the point now that civilization with accommodations, or even gas, are much further apart. There was no place to stay or camp for 100 miles further along. My body was telling me it was actually an hour later by my home time so we got us a nice tent site in the RV park and set up camp for the night. I figured if I could get this report done at night we could hit the road real early in the morning and make up some miles.

For anyone interested, here's the extra battery in the trunk with the black clamp on the negative post, the same as the other end is on the car battery under the hood, and the red clamp on the positive post.



Then in just a few seconds, I move the black clamp to the positive post, clamp the red clamp to the positive clamp from the inverter, and clamp the inverter's negative clamp to the negative post on the battery. With the two 6 volt batteries now in series with the inverter, I have a huge amount of 12 volt power to run and charge everything all night and still plenty to start the car in the morning.



My bedroom and work space for reporting.



If you look close you can see the cord running from the trunk to the tent.





I was hoping to get to Skagway tomorrow but won't likely make the 638 miles we have left. But, we'll make up some time, then get there early the next day, get my sticker to say I did, and head back for home.

[Old Henry]

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Originally Posted by 50fordcoupeman

Enjoying your trip!! The northwest is a beautiful place to live if one likes mountains and water.

And, very few people very far apart.

[Old Henry]

Originally Posted by GB SISSON

Are we there yet? I'm in the back seat with the others. What kind of camera are you using? Amazing photos.

I use this little Sony DSC-WX350 point and shoot.



It gets me some good pixels to then work with Photoshop to get the pictures you actually see. They don't come out of the camera looking like that.

[Old Henry]

Originally Posted by Lawrie

Graig, your trips and comontary are WAY. Better than anything on nat geo channel, I wish I had your laid back attitude,we are awY in our model A and after 1600 klms the cam gear got noisey,so we headed back towards home,after driving 550 klms it went quiet,so we turned around and kept going.we are of to darwin,a 3200 klm trip. But man it's hot,no snow on our trip.
We are only travelling about 450 klms per day.
Take care and need we say it enjoy yourself.
Lawrie

Yeah, whenever I hear something strange, my heart skips a couple of beats, then I look at the speedometer. If it's reading any forward motion at all, I'm good to go. No worries as long as we're still going. Most new noises eventually go away or aren't a sign of anything to worry about before you get home anyway. I don't get worried until the speedometer involuntarily reads 0.

[Old Henry]

Originally Posted by RalphM

Yea, the bugs can get pretty thick up here. A lot of travelers of the alcan put window screen material over their grill for the trip. You don't have to clean as much off, and they can get so bad as to clog your radiator and effect cooling.
Loving the trip, I see that you posted another " Interior" shot for me.

A member actually sent me an original Ford accessory screen for the grill. But, I tried putting a screen in front of our family van in the summer once on a long cross country trip. The engine ran hotter until I took it off. Those screens actually block more air flow than any amount of bugs. Try it sometime at home with a table fan and some screen and see how much flow screen blocks.

[51 MERC-CT]

As usual, some outstanding photos and narrative.
Do I see the birth of a 'coffee table book' in the future ?

[Old Henry]

Day 6

We made a little better miles today, 452 to Teslin for the night, not quite to Alaska yet, 158 more miles to go. Total so far 2,200.



I thought it would be pretty much the same stuff as we'd seen and we'd just make some good mileage without many stops for pictures. But, there were some interesting things to see.

The main thing we watched for anxiously was places to get gas. I'd heard horror stories of how few and far between they were and how so many that used to be along the way had closed down. Here's one of the first ones we got to that was abandoned:



But, we eventually came upon one that was still in business. It was pretty quaint with the old style pumps and, none other than full service! Don't see that much any more.



And, when we went inside to pay he was still using the old credit card slider. Haven't seen one of those for years.



And, he had an old pop cooler a year older than Old Henry, made in 1946, that was still working and full of pop.



There were some other styles of fuel delivery too. This one had the pump attached right to the surface tank.



I think the highest price I paid for gas today was $1.599 per liter.



That's $5.90 per gallon!

I was glad when we finally hit a section of unpaved road. The drive wouldn't be complete without a little mud and dirt on the car. It's traditional.



But, alas, it was just a section under construction for just 3 miles. Oh well. At least we got our mud. There was just one other short section and the rest was all paved although fairly worn with a lot of patches.

A couple of the many quaint old cantilever bridges a long the way.





Stowaways. Some of 'em still kickin'.



Then we started to get into the high mountains.



Now, there is something interesting about the mountains here. We are driving at an elevation of only 1,221 meters, 4000 feet.



Yet, you see that we are almost at the timberline above which nothing will grow. That timberline where I live is up at 10,000 feet! I have found that the further north I have traveled, the lower the timberline. I first noticed that when I first went to Glacier National Park in Montana and the timberline was only 6,000 feet.

A couple of the many beautiful lakes along the way:





And some other mountain scenery:





Wild mountain sheep grazing along the side of the road. On what? Gravel?



And lots of bison, too. (No, they are not buffalo as many suppose. Those live in Africa.)



One final landscape with the low sun for the end of today's report.

[tiger.1000]

Blimey ! That is truly amazing and there's folk bleating on about not getting their I Pad whatsitts working in the car !

[Ol' Ron]

Well another thumb tack in the map. I also go down and drive the same road on street view, and have actually seen the same areas in your pictures. BTW, great bunch of guys back here.

[dude]

Thank you , thank you..

[petehoovie]

Craig,

Good music would be the 'frosting on the cake' that this trip of yours is. Did you bring any along with you? If so, can you give us a listen?....

[rowens55]

Beautiful!!! Just beautiful!!! Lucky dog!!
Rowen

[36coupe]

Nice

[50fordcoupeman]

If Canada uses any kind of salt product for deicing the roads, it could be the sheep have learned they can lick it up off the roadway.

[A bones]

As per today's pix: OMG

[Fortunateson]

Two questions: what does "'SHE" refer to and what's the deal with the map and the 86h? Is the map not up-dated?

[JSeery]

Originally Posted by Fortunateson

Two questions: what does "'SHE" refer to and what's the deal with the map and the 86h? Is the map not up-dated?

See post #56, S.H.E. = Stupid Human Error.
The map is a static photo from before the trip started.

[mercman from oz]

Old Henry, Thanks for sharing these beautiful photos from your Alaska trip. You certainly excell in taking great pictures, and adding the old Ford to the photos makes them even better. Thank you. Mercman from Oz <><

[Tim Ayers]

Love it. Thank you son much for sharing. You are partly responsible for my family heading west to check out some of the sights you've posted on your journeys. Where can I send the bill?

[Talkwrench]

Lovin' the trip. Scenery is outstanding.
Your having better luck than Lawrie, I got a message from him his model A pickup is on a flatbed truck heading home from outback Queensland..

[Fortunateson]

Thanks for the clarification.

[RalphM]

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See you in Alaska tomorrow!

[Old Redneck]

I sure do look forward each day reading where you are. I hate those nasty bugs which makes a tough cleanup. Tomorrow Alaska. Wow what a trip. How the little dog doing? On my 35 pickup I would like to build a light camper to have on the bed. Then maybe I could talk my wife to go on a nice long tour out west. There I go dreaming again.

[flatford8]

Great trip!!.... Whats the red on the Bisons' neck?.... Mark

[51 MERC-CT]

Originally Posted by flatford8

Great trip!!.... Whats the red on the Bisons' neck?.... Mark

Suggest that it is either something on the window or a reflection of something on the car window, not something on the neck.

[RobR'35]

What a trip! Great photos!
Thanks for sharing your adventure.

[donald1950]

wow.... great pictures... thank you.....

[47Sooner]

What a great trip !! Love reading your trip posts. We made the Alaska drive about the same time, two years ago, but only in a RV, not " Old Henry ". I remember stopping at that full service gas station. I would love to take our 47 on the same drive, what an adventure you must be having. Another good stop along the way is the Liard Hot Springs, good for camping and relaxing in the springs. Enjoy the bears along the way ! We saw 28 bears.

[VeryTangled]

Hey Prof. Henry, I've got a question: What does a 'bucket of honey' look like?

You have been really clever how you've got the creature comforts worked out, temps, audio, tracking, charging, external power, etc.

Even Lady has a drink when needed! Maybe a baggie of some kind under the computer would be preventative? Like, take a gallon bag, cut off the bottom two inches, and tuck the leading edge of the notebook in that.

Thanks for the hard work putting up with us'ins in the backseat and our unsolicited suggestions!

Hoping you find some less expensive fuel too!

EDIT TO ADD: I was re-reading, and wanted to give extra props for this photo. I realize you must have climbed up a rocky area, like in the back right, to get the elevation on this shot. Well framed with the valley floor in the back and the road leading your eye there! Leaving the fog lights on makes the car look even sexier!

[Fredb_]

Awesome pictures. Love your spirit and grit!

[tamnalan]

You've probably already passed through Whitehorse, but there's some interesting things to see if you get off the highway. This monster lurks at the airport.

[RalphM]

I'm on the edge of my seat! Did you make it?

[Capsacto]

Old Henry, what an awesome trip and your daily travel-logs for us. As mentioned before, you could write a book about your travels in Old Henry. A chapter could be dedicated to all of the specialized gear you have devised and supplies you have on-board. I'm looking forward to reading what's next. Thanks for including us!

[sidevalve8ba]

I almost feel like I have a window seat on this journey. Thanks professor.

[Old Henry]

Been in suspense? Me too, wondering when I'd ever get cell phone service/internet connection again.

Day 7

WE MADE IT!!



And then on to Skagway. I was sorta expecting some kind of welcoming committee. You know, a banner across the road, band playing, mayor to give me the key to the city. There wasn't even a ribbon to break for the finish line. Just his sign with two holes you can stick your face through to be a sunflower.



Then I cleaned some of the mud off the car and took a few souvenir photos.







Some of the narrow gauge railroad cars pulled the canyon over the pass to Canada.



Then got me a sticker for the back window.



And a hat pin.




And headed for home.

On the way back up the canyon we spotted the railway making its way back down to Skagway.



Back up at the top the terrain and foliage is some of the strangest I've seen. Almost a volcanic looking rock with miniature evergreens of some sort. Even though the trees were obviously well established, none were more than 10-15 feet tall.





Then we were back in the Yukon.



And started seeing bears. Brown bears,



and black bears.



But my own personal favorite was the much more rare red fox.



Its face reminded me so much of my little Chihuahua's.



Did 316 miles and ended back just beyond Teslin where we camped for the night.

I know I'm a day behind with my reports but gotta hit the road for now. Hopefully can get caught up soon.

[V8COOPMAN]

Wuz just beginning to wonder if maybe some bears had eaten you! DD

[Bill]

Noticed the trees fully leafed out in Skagway. Here in NS just starting to show green! Also the back seat crew are all camera shy... suspect witness protection lol.. Bill

[Ol' Ron]

I have the same camera and it doezent do what yourz doz. Haven't slept in 3 days, crowed back here. Thought you'd stay the night. Weel time for amother thumb tack. Take care,

[FlatheadTed]

Great stuff Henry, That's got to be one of the most travelled stock Flat heads around .Ted

[AKCJ]

Glad ya made it!

[Ford46]

Craig, great pictures and I (we) always enjoy your travels, great job of documenting your flathead trips. Let those guys in the back seat out for air, poor Ol' Ron will be getting all cramped up soon, if not already! Thanks again for taking us along. LouB.

[Fredb_]

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Great photos. That terrain reminds me of the high country here in the Oregon Cascades, beautiful!

[flatford8]

Do we hafta go home allready????.....Mark

[tony starr]

Wonderful scenery, loving the photographs.

[RalphM]

Congratulations Craig! You know you could have caught the ferry to Valdez and kept going north!

By the way, first pic was a black bear, not brown( and a very nice sized one too).It was just a tad different color phase. We get them all the way to a reddish cinnamon color.
And the can look like grizzley/ brown bears except for the hump on thier back.

[flathead48]

God speed Ol Henry

[Lanny]

Been a fun trip so far, but kin we stop again,
I have to go to the baffroom......










.

[petehoovie]

Craig,

We know it's you who drives 'Old Henry'.....But what drives YOU???

[al's28/33]

Professor I can't believe you're doing this trip by yourself...... at least no grandchildren navigating for you ?......... I am so glad you have been safe and made the journey trouble free. God Speed and safe return home..... maybe try a little gold panning before you leave the Yukon, you never know ?!?!?!?!

[tony starr]

I might of missed this somewhere but do you mind me asking what transmission / rearend setup you have to be averaging speeds of 60-65 mph?

[Old Henry]

EXTRA EXTRA
OLD HENRY HAS HIS FIRST CAR TROUBLE

Yup. I was just cruising along counting my blessings that I'd had no problem when I looked down at the battery gauge and it was way to the left, so far that my first thought was a short somewhere. But, I didn't see or smell any smoke. (Remember, I still have all original 69 year old wiring.) I started shutting of electrical stuff one at a time to see what would return the needle to the charge side. Nothing did. That could only mean the generator had quit. Now, I've had the generator quit on many a road trip, in fact on my very first one on Route 66. So, I knew it was a little annoying but no train stopper or deal breaker. I'd driven 250 miles before with no generator and now I had two batteries. So, I figured I could make it home charging the batteries at night at a motel (cuts out camping) then drive all day just firing the sparkplugs off of two batteries. Still, I'd have to leave the heater fan off, which we've used the whole way, and the computer. Yeah, I have spare brushes to put in but figured I could make it home without that effort.

Before I left and all the time I've been traveling I've thought, "What is the most likely thing to fail on this trip?" The generator was the most likely candidate mainly because of the brushes that just don't seem to last very long. Other than that, it would have to be a break in my 69 year old wiring. Thinking more likely the brushes, I started up the engine, got my hammer out of the tool box, reached under the hood, and gave the generator a few sharp taps. Low and behold, it came back on and worked fine the rest of the night. So, false alarm, not that big of a news item after all.

I had the same experience recently with my electric fuel pump that hadn't been in very long when it quit. So, I ordered a new one. When it came I thought, "Before going through all the effort to drain the tank and remove and replace this pump that quit, let's try a hammer on it." Sure enough. A couple of taps with the hammer and it was as good as new again. I have had to use it continuously on sections of this trip and it's still working fine. I now have a spare in the trunk, just in case the hammer loses its magic.

[Old Henry]

Day 8

A lot of miles today, 518 from just east of Teslin, YT to Kitwanga, BC. Total 3,153 so far. 1,667 to home.



Just before Watson Lake we left the Alaska Highway to go south into British Columbia on the Cassiar Highway.



Now, whoever suggested this route home I've got to thank a million. That Cassiar Highway was thee funnest road I've ever driven.



Not particularly any more scenic, but it just bobbed and weaved like a drunken sailor, up and down and back and forth. The sections that were brand new asphalt as smooth as glass such that there was no feel whatever of the road surface were like flying a stunt plane or a race car on a grand prix course. Absolutely tons of fun. Some of the other sections of the road were more like riding a stagecoach they were so bumpy. I got a lot of good video to share driving this fun road when I get home.

One of the nice things about stopping to take pictures was to be able to hear the sounds of silence. None of the "background noise" that all cities and large towns have. Just total peaceful silence broken only by the chirp of birds or buzzing of flies or bees. And, I got u[ close with some of the beautiful wild flowers that lined the road all the way.

These little purple ones.



Blue ones.



And, of course, the ever popular dandelions.



I have to tell you about the best surface for dancing the "bias-ply boogie". It's the surface of these cantilever bridges.



It is a grate that throws the bias-plies around like nothing else. You just gotta drive them with the good boogie music on.



There were certainly more scenic vistas along the way.





I was sure glad to stumble on this great little camp ground late that night when I was too tired to drive any more.

[Old Henry]

Day 9

Only 374 miles today from Kitwanga to Quesnel. Total of 3,526. 1,293 left to go.



Spent a lot of time this morning getting caught up on my reports.



So, you thought the days of the old camera drape for photography were over.



Not quite. In order to accurately adjust all aspects of my photos for posting I had to be able to view my computer screen without any reflections in it. This was the way I finally figured out to do it in my tent in the bright morning sun. Funny thing is, after sitting there over an hour editing the pictures, I realized that I'd turned the screen brightness down when driving the previous night and that's why I couldn't see the screen very well.

So, that's why we didn't go many miles today.

[Old Henry]

Originally Posted by tony starr

I might of missed this somewhere but do you mind me asking what transmission / rearend setup you have to be averaging speeds of 60-65 mph?

It's all original stock stuff. Standard three on the tree and 3.78 rear end.

[Old Henry]

Originally Posted by petehoovie

Craig,

We know it's you who drives 'Old Henry'.....But what drives YOU???

I may seem "driven" for what I have a passion for, which is different for every person. I think everyone is "driven" for some passion. While mine is driving, for others it's building engines, etc. On one of the first days of this trip my wife informed me that the father of my son's wife, whose children she is babysitting while they went on a cruise, reached the top of Mount Everest with two artificial knees. What made him do it? It wasn't his first attempt. I had a law partner for years that did the same thing - climbing mountains, that is, but with his own original knees. For me, I seem to have this passion just to see what I can do. I have discovered that the only way to really find out what you can do is to find out what you can't do. In other words, shoot for the stars. If you only reach the moon, you know that was the best you can do. If you just shoot for the moon and make it, you're not sure whether that was really the best you could do. My law partner rarely reached the tops of the mountains he tried for. "The top of the mountain was just there to get me to find out what was the best I could do. I always found that out, unless, of course, I reached the top." Likewise, if I successfully complete this "quest", I will know that I can do this. But, I won't know if that was really my best. I'll have to take a longer, more difficult trip and fail to find that out. I've done that a lot with R/C airplanes - tried stuff just to see if I could do it then find out it was beyond my abilities. At least I then knew what my very best was. I seem to have to find that out for some reason.

[Old Henry]

Originally Posted by Lanny

Been a fun trip so far, but kin we stop again,
I have to go to the baffroom.......

OK. We've stopped. Do you see that bush on the side of the road? Make it quick. We haven't got all day.

[Old Henry]

Originally Posted by Ol' Ron

. . . Thought you'd stay the night. . .

That was the plan, to arrive in Skagway Monday night and stay. But, we got a half a day behind so had to rush. Sorry. "Hey, you guys back there, go easy on the old guy. Give him some room."

[Ol' Ron]

The pics are beautiful. I went down on street view, and felt like I was there. I can't thank you enough for taking us along
OL' Ron

[47Sooner]

Originally Posted by Old Henry

It's all original stock stuff. Standard three on the tree and 3.87 rear end.

Seems like the stock set-up works just fine. Still enjoying your pics ! I plan on taking that Western route back on our next trip to Alaska. Looks like you have the magic hammer.

[Sal]

As always your trips are inspirational, the photography is awesome, thank you!!!

[Seth Swoboda]

As always I'm really enjoying this blog. Thanks for your dedication to achieve what most people won't in an early Ford V8. See the USA in a Chevrolet? HA! They got nothing on Old Henry! "Never get bored in your '48 Ford".

[Old Henry]

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Originally Posted by Fortunateson

Two questions: what does "'SHE" refer to and what's the deal with the map and the 86h? Is the map not up-dated?

Originally Posted by JSeery

See post #56, S.H.E. = Stupid Human Error.
The map is a static photo from before the trip started.

The original map was the shortest and fastest route to Skagway which bypassed Glacier National Park, Banff and Jasper National Parks. When I got ahead a little on the first day I decided to add those which is the difference between that first map and the rest.

[mhsprecher]

Keep on V8in' O.H. Love it.

[Old Henry]

Originally Posted by tiger.1000

Blimey ! That is truly amazing and there's folk bleating on about not getting their I Pad whatsitts working in the car !

Funny you should say that. The only chronic mechanical problem I've had on this whole trip so far is with the newest, latest, most modern thing I bought for it - the laptop based GPS system. It has voice commands. I'm constantly "communicating" with it (in loud angry tones) to get it to do the right thing and just keep doing something! It had quit the two times I missed my turns.

The good old stock original machine made by Mr. Ford, on the other hand, has pushed along like a trooper without a hitch.

[Old Henry]

Originally Posted by petehoovie

Craig,

Good music would be the 'frosting on the cake' that this trip of yours is. Did you bring any along with you? If so, can you give us a listen?....

Our theme song is Willy Nelson's "On the Road Again". Listen to a Pandora radio station by that name while reading. The videos that I produce and share when I get home will have music. Don't know how to make it play through a post.

[flatford8]

Most of your trips seem to have a strict schedule and you only seem to alter your route when forced to......do you ever just take off and go wherever?..... Kind of like... Oh, this looks like a nice road.... lets take it. This has been a great trip.... Hope it all goes well on the way home..... Mark

[Old Redneck]

When I travel in my old cars I always have a extra generator, fuel pump, carb, coil, oil, fuses, fan belt and water pumps. The tools, small battery charger, antifreeze,water, sleeping bag. And always I always forget something as usual. I almost forget my wife? Don't need a radio with her.

[A bones]

Your daughter in law's father's feat made the evening news on TV.

[Old Henry]

Day 10

Short report. Just drove today. 446 miles to Omak, Washington, U.S.A. Total of 3,971 with 847 to go.



The higher fatigue level is starting to hit - the "endurance, survival, grit your teeth and keep pushing on to the finish line" phase of the trip. The scenery we drove through was very nice - nothing better than we've seen. Many times I had the thought, "That's pretty. I really should stop and take a picture." But then, as Rhett Butler said to Scarlet O'Hara, I said to myself, "Frankly, my dear, I don't . . . a . . . have the energy" or something to that effect. So, hope all of you back there in the back got a nice long nap. You really didn't miss anything.

I've got to share my experience crossing the border back into the good old U.S. of A. Even though I'd only been gone for just over a week, less the hour or two in Alaska, I had building anticipation to get back as I got nearer and nearer to the crossing. I was, frankly, a bit surprised when I finally crossed, stopped and changed my GPS system back into miles, and had my speedometer read right again, the strong feelings of just being home again. Although Canada is just as civilized as we are and nothing bad at all about it, other than making my speedometer read wrong, it was still good to be home again and feel at home again. I love this country, even with all of its faults. It is my home and I'm glad to be back.

I did actually get real tools (not my "magic hammer") out of the tool box and worked on the car today. It as a 1/2" end wrench to loosen the lock-nut on the vacuum brake adjustment on the distributor, and a long screw driver to screw the adjustment screw down to get rid of the annoying ping on climbs. Worked great, mostly. In the morning I'll retard the timing some to get rid of the pinging that still lingers.

I've got 472 miles to get to my daughter's in Meridian, Idaho tomorrow night to stay overnight and go to church with them in the morning then 386 miles to finish getting home that night.

[Old Henry]

Originally Posted by Redneck

When I travel in my old cars I always have a extra generator, fuel pump, carb, coil, oil, fuses, fan belt and water pumps. The tools, small battery charger, antifreeze,water, sleeping bag. And always I always forget something as usual. I almost forget my wife? Don't need a radio with her.

The only thing I needed to bring on this nearly 5,000 mile trip was my "magic hammer", my 1/2" end wrench, my long screw driver, and 2-3 gallons of motor oil I've gone through.

[Old Henry]

Originally Posted by flatford8

Most of your trips seem to have a strict schedule and you only seem to alter your route when forced to......do you ever just take off and go wherever?..... Kind of like... Oh, this looks like a nice road.... lets take it.

Most of my road trips have been that more laid back sort where my wife and I will get in the car with our bags, head down the street, and, when we get to a point of decision, decide which way to go then keep doing the same thing at each point of decision until we go until we're ready to stop and get the nearest dive motel for the night. But, this one to Alaska could not be that way, primarily because of it's length. Here's why:

I am not retired. And, I don't say "yet" because I don't see myself ever stopping working as long as I have the physical and mental ability to work. I love my work and make plenty of money in very little time so intend to keep going. Fortunately, I am a self employed solo practicing attorney.

The nature of my practice gives me great flexibility in my schedule to work when I want and play when I want. It's very much like being retired as far as that freedom goes. However, there is one thing I don't control. That's when my clients' hearings are scheduled several months in advance. The scheduling of those hearings are firm and not changeable except for dire emergencies like death in the family.

When AnnaRae told me that she needed to got to Houston to babysit kids for 11 days from May 12th to the 23rd, I already had a hearing scheduled on the 12th and one on the 24th. When I thought of driving Old Henry to Alaska, I knew it would be tight to do it in 11 days. And, it would have to be done without a hitch to fit in between those two hearings. If anything went wrong and there was any delay, I'd miss the hearing on the 24th, much to the damage to my client. I still intended to try.

Fortunately, my need to appear at the hearing on the 12th dropped out about a week before it. So, I could leave two days earlier to have two days of emergency buffer, just in case. It turns out I needed them because the trip is ending up taking 12 days instead of the 11 days planned.

Another thing that cuts into the "laid back" nature of all of my road trips, which I'm quite used to after so many years of it, is that I am always at work, not matter where I am, as long as I have cell phone service. I get calls from new and old clients and others all through the day that I have to take because there is no one else to do it while I'm gone. That was why those two days of no cell phone service on the Cassiar Highway was so nice, even though I thought often about all of those who were going to have to wait a day or two for me to call them back when I had service again. Also, at some time during each day, sometimes at the end and sometimes at the beginning of the day, I have to go through all of the day's mail with my secretary over Skype to deal with it. So, I am, inevitably, multitasking all the time. I don't mind. The driving relaxes me no matter what I'm doing.

[Old Henry]

Originally Posted by tony starr

I might of missed this somewhere but do you mind me asking what transmission / rearend setup you have to be averaging speeds of 60-65 mph?

Originally Posted by Old Henry

It's all original stock stuff. Standard three on the tree and 3.78 rear end.

Originally Posted by 47Sooner

Seems like the stock set-up works just fine.

The thing that I have learned from my experience is that the most important thing to feel comfortable driving constantly at high speeds with a flathead and stock rear end is to have the engine perfectly balanced. I've driven my car with the engine in three different states and it really makes a difference. When I first restarted the engine 9 years ago after it sat for 31 years, I drove it for 10,000 miles before having it rebuilt. I was afraid to go over 50 mph because the engine seemed like it might blow up. When I had it rebuilt, we found all of the original bearings were all split in two and other severe wear that caused that feeling. But, as far as I know, that rebuild did not balance anything, just rebuilt it. It certainly ran better than before and I felt fairly confident to cruise up to 60 or 65 mph. But, this last time I had it rebuilt, every moving part in the engine was zero balanced. Wow! That really made a difference. I can cruise at 65 to 70 or even 75 if I want to without any effort and the engine just purrs like it's not even trying.

[Old Henry]

Originally Posted by VeryTangled

Hey Prof. Henry, I've got a question: What does a 'bucket of honey' look like?

Here are the two one gallon buckets of honey.

Originally Posted by VeryTangled

I was re-reading, and wanted to give extra props for this photo. I realize you must have climbed up a rocky area, like in the back right, to get the elevation on this shot. Well framed with the valley floor in the back and the road leading your eye there! Leaving the fog lights on makes the car look even sexier!

I found that I can get this kind of shot from a high angle without climbing anything, and even when there is nothing to climb, by extending my monopod fully, set the camera timer for 10 seconds, push the button, and hoist the camera up in the air as high as I can reach and hold it still while watching the level until the shutter trips to take the picture.

Here are some others taken that way on this trip.









On other trips:









I think you "get the picture".

[Terry,OH]

Thank You for sharing your trip and best of luck! Beautiful!

[RalphM]

Just curious , with that many miles, did you plan any oil changes or lube intervals?

[wisbangman]

Old Henry - You are so KOOL ! .....Thanks

[Old Henry]

Originally Posted by RalphM

Just curious , with that many miles, did you plan any oil changes or lube intervals?

I didn't plan any but, it turned out, I have been putting a quart or two of oil in every day. So, I guess that equals an oil change every few days.

[Mart]

^^ That's what I was thinking!

Mart.

[Old Henry]

Originally Posted by A bones

Your daughter in law's father's feat made the evening news on TV.

And I didn't even get an "honorable mention" for driving a 69 year old bone stock automobile to Alaska.

[Prawbly]

Henry - - you don't know me, but you are definitely on my honorable mention, and I'm sure on a l0T more here on the Barn. You are doing a fantastic job, You have taken me with you on your trip. Your photos are great and you will be commended for your work. I had a 1949 ford p/u with a 53 merc. flathead in it that used oil like you described your Ford does. It ran for miles,. and miles and never complained once. I just made sure I carried the oil with me on trips, and go like hell. Anyway, I can't thank you enough for what you are doing, It's great, thank you. - - ONLY ON THE BARN !!!! Pat

[Old Redneck]

You have made friends all over the USA and over seas. You have done good as they say. I would love to do that as you have done. Keep up the good work.

[oldogy]

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Thanks for sharing this wonderful trip.

[V8COOPMAN]

Originally Posted by Old Henry

I didn't plan any but, it turned out, I have been putting a quart or two of oil in every day. So, I guess that equals an oil change every few days.

Let's see.......so that means you're averaging something near 200 miles per quart of oil? Wow! DD

[Darrell S]

This is great adventure you are sharing, I have looked forward to each segment, much better than anything on the tube. With all that time on the road have you been planning your next trip?

And to Redneck, I love your post about the radio and your wife. Is that a Cadillac in your thumbnail?

[vtwinsideways]

Thanks so much for sharing this trip. My wife and I are restoring her late father's '41 Ford p/u and I have been reading your stories to her. When she received the truck, the sbc in it was in desparate need of a rebuild, the three speed Saginaw was locking up and she wasn't sure what she wanted to do with the truck. I race at a stock class hill climb in our Model A every year and she asked if she might be able to run her truck and I explained that if we restored it to original she would. She has dove in and we found a top loader, '41front and rear axles last year and a '41-'42 99t this year that we are in the process of dissassembling currently. Your view on balancing is much appreciated as she intends on driving her truck far and often. Thanks for the encouraging tales!

[Mart]

Thanks for filling in with the interesting back story. It all makes a lot of sense now. It's a remarkable feat. We all enjoy following the travelogue.

Mart.

[Ol' Ron]

Yes, you do need an Honorable Mention. However, I'll give you several "'Atta Boy's". For achieving something we all wish we could have done. but the best part of your journey Was: taking us with you. Thanks for the adventure, I enjoyed the ride.
Ol' Ron

[Bill]

So professor it's really none of my business but I feel the need to inquire. When you pull off into one of those obscure campgrounds and setup your tent in the middle of nowhere do you feel safe for the overnight? What I am asking is do you carry a pistol? Beside the four legged critters there can also be two legged varmints looking for opportunity. Like I said it's none of my business but I wonder if any other barners think the way I do... Bill

[tubman]

Professor,

I have been following your adventure, but by the time I got around to it, the back seat was full! When I grow up, I want to be just like you.

Tubman

[47Sooner]

Originally Posted by Bill

So professor it's really none of my business but I feel the need to inquire. When you pull off into one of those obscure campgrounds and setup your tent in the middle of nowhere do you feel safe for the overnight? What I am asking is do you carry a pistol? Beside the four legged critters there can also be two legged varmints looking for opportunity. Like I said it's none of my business but I wonder if any other barners think the way I do... Bill

Old Henry, I've really enjoyed the trip through your story and pictures. Great job !
On a side note of the above, as far as a pistol, it's not a wise idea to try to cross into Canada with one. I know you camped in a tent, which may be the only way traveling with your car, but it's not generally a good idea in bear country. Not trying to be critical, you had an absolute great adventure.

[dwick01]

Really enjoying your trip Professor. The pictures are beautiful.

[Old Henry]

Day 11

461 miles today. Total of 4,432 miles so far.

Pretty uneventful. It was kind of amazing that I drove through two total states and into a third one in one day when it took me 4 days to drive through just the Canadian province of British Columbia.



The vistas opened up in central Washington and I came upon this nice view of a lake between cliffs.



395 miles left to go tomorrow to say I actually did it.

[Old Henry]

Originally Posted by Bill

So professor it's really none of my business but I feel the need to inquire. When you pull off into one of those obscure campgrounds and setup your tent in the middle of nowhere do you feel safe for the overnight? What I am asking is do you carry a pistol? Beside the four legged critters there can also be two legged varmints looking for opportunity. Like I said it's none of my business but I wonder if any other barners think the way I do... Bill

Originally Posted by 47Sooner

Old Henry, I've really enjoyed the trip through your story and pictures. Great job !
On a side note of the above, as far as a pistol, it's not a wise idea to try to cross into Canada with one. I know you camped in a tent, which may be the only way traveling with your car, but it's not generally a good idea in bear country. Not trying to be critical, you had an absolute great adventure.

Ever been to Mars? No, probably not. I ask that because the places that I drove through in Canada and camped in were as different from most of the towns and cities that we all live in that they are like they are on another planet. I'll try to paint the picture.

Most of the places (and I use the term "places" loosely, as most would not be what we would call towns or cities or communities or even neighborhoods.) These places mostly count their populations with one or two digits tops. Rarely would one break into three digits, and that would be the low end of those. And, the number of miles between these "places" could not be counted with one digit but only upper twos and low threes. And, the only law enforcement officer I ever saw in a week driving several thousand miles in rural Canada was the one that pulled over for a photography lesson from me on day 5, and I don't think he even had a gun.

Just to give an example of these kind of "places" is the one called "Continental Divide".

(Just found this Google image of the place before the campground)



I hit there at 10:30 P.M. on day 7. I was beat and ready to sleep. This place had a little building called a store with a gas pump out front, a portable building near by called a "motel", and another portable building called "showers and laundry". Even though it was still as light as if the sun had just gone down, even though it had been down for an hour, everything was all closed up and everyone gone to bed. On the front of the "store" was a roughly hand painted sign on a piece of board that read, "New - Camping. $10.00". I looked for such and saw an area back behind the buildings that had gravel among the trees arranged in some semblance of camp sites. No one was camping. An old boat was being stored in one site. I decided to pitch my tent in the spot closest to the "showers", which, I assumed, included toilets. There was no cell phone/internet service there for me to do a report, I was too tired anyway. So, I went right to bed and heard the soft rain on the tent as I went to sleep. The other thing I could hear was the generator running that provided all of the power for the "place". That's how all of these "places" ran, on their own generator. I never saw any power lines anywhere until I got back to civilization.

In the morning I got up and went over to the "showers". There were toilets, OK. But, the lids were off the tanks and there was no water in them. I got dressed and went over to the "store" to use theirs. They at least had running water. I had seen the hand written sign on the gas pump "we do not accept any credit cards. Cash only". I hadn't stocked up with cash before leaving home since I knew "every place" in Canada took cards. I had $25.00. An old hermit looking guy came up from the back of the building. As far as I could tell, he was the only other person there besides me. I told him that I needed to pay my $10.00 for camping but didn't have any of his kind of money. He took my $20.00 and gave me back a Canadian $10.00. After packing up I drove the car to the pump to put some gas in. He had to be the one to pump it and I warned him I only had the $10.00 he'd just given me so don't go over that. He did fine. I paid him and left.

That was certainly the most primitive of the places I camped. But, I have to say, if there was any thug there hoping to make a living on mugging a lone tent camper that may stop there once a week, they'd starve pretty quick.

It was like that other places I camped too, other than the national park camp ground. In all of those little "places", there was no one that had anything worth stealing for any crook to make a living at it. And, if a "highwayman" decided to ply the highways looking for a hit, he'd have to drive hundreds of miles for days and days before finding one.

So, any crooks that ever threatened the pristine peace of those places were starved out long ago and posed no threat nor fear for anyone, including me.

As for bears, they only want food, and mostly dead food and vegetarian. They're not looking for a nice fresh, live human to chow down on, nor even a nice warm little puppy. So, as long as you don't leave any food out nor in your tent, you're safe. At least that's what I've read and had the ranger at the national park campground tell me.

Oh, by the way, none of the above explanation was good enough for my mother, who told me when I talked to her daily, the I should have taken a gun (which I've never owned in my life) and will likely be killed by bears.

[Mart]

Good stuff, Prof. Continental Divide is a thing, or feature rather than a place name. It's the imaginary line where water drains into the pacific on one side and the atlantic on the other. So unless this little place was actually really called that name, it may be more likely that it was on or near the continental divide. I've seen the signs, normally at the tops of various mountain passes.

The cliffs in the pic above remind me of the car shaped cliffs in Radiator Springs in the Cars movie.

Mart.

[47Sooner]

Great pics again, Prof. Your car has done well ! There are many remote stops on that drive. I can remember stopping at a small remote one gas station town in Alberta and eating one of the best meals that I've ever had. The more I read about your trip, the more I want to go back.

[Old Redneck]

In the little picture its a Studebaker Commander 1939. 2 door sdn. It a nice car but I still love my Fords.I will miss each day reading about the trip to Alaska and back. I got my wife a new car so she would hounding me to get rid of all my Junkers as she now calls them.. Wish I had the nerve to take a very long trip away from here. Where would I go? Thanks for the adventure that we all dream of.

[Cecil/WV]

Redneck, You could go to Tulsa next month with James Parsons and me! Just hook up the trailer and put one of those junkers on it. Don't forget your sissy pants!!

[Old Henry]

Originally Posted by Darrell S

With all that time on the road have you been planning your next trip?

Next month AnnaRae, Lady, Old Henry and I are driving the rest of California Highway 1 north from San Francisco as far north as we want to go, possibly clear to Seattle.

[51504bat]

Originally Posted by Bill

So professor it's really none of my business but I feel the need to inquire. When you pull off into one of those obscure campgrounds and setup your tent in the middle of nowhere do you feel safe for the overnight? What I am asking is do you carry a pistol? Beside the four legged critters there can also be two legged varmints looking for opportunity. Like I said it's none of my business but I wonder if any other barners think the way I do... Bill

Even if the Prof owned a pistol and wanted to have it with him there is no way he could have gotten into Canada with it. I drove through Canada on a trip back east several years ago. At the time I hadn't retired yet and was still an active law enforcement officer with protected plates on my car. When I stopped at the border they must have run my plates because the Canadian border official grilled both my wife and me for about 15 minutes trying to determine if I had a weapon in the car. Luckily it was locked in the evidence locker back at the station. Handguns in Canada are a big no no.

[VeryTangled]

Hi Everyone, Prof. Thanks for the photo of the honey. Let us know if it's good enough to send for a tub, please?

The deal with the screen brightness still has me giggling.

Enjoy your own bed tonight!

[Old Henry]

Originally Posted by 51504bat

Even if the Prof owned a pistol and wanted to have it with him there is no way he could have gotten into Canada with it. I drove through Canada on a trip back east several years ago. At the time I hadn't retired yet and was still an active law enforcement officer with protected plates on my car. When I stopped at the border they must have run my plates because the Canadian border official grilled both my wife and me for about 15 minutes trying to determine if I had a weapon in the car. Luckily it was locked in the evidence locker back at the station. Handguns in Canada are a big no no.

Yeah, they grilled me at the border about any kind of firearm or anything else dangerous, like Mace spray or anything. I guess they didn't think little Lady looked all that dangerous. Of course, I had nothing. I wondered what they would say or do if I actually had something but didn't ask.

[Alaska Jim]

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Bill, you can not take a pistol into Canada, don't even try. even hard for a Canadian citizen to get a permit for one. oops sorry, did not see 51504bat's post.

[Alaska Jim]

Old Henry, enjoy your trip down the California coast I think you will find the scenery very beautiful. I made that trip back in the 80's in a Triumph TR-6 , which was a lot of fun on the windy roads. be sure to make it into the Redwoods, those trees are unbelievable in person. seeing them on T.V. or in a book just doesn't do it. I jogged off the coast and went to Tillamook to visit the Cheese factory, but they were not giving tours that day, but I did buy so great cheese. enjoy your trip.-----Jim

[corvette8n]

Post # 176 is certainly a post card moment, really great scenery.

[Old Henry]

Day 12 - Final Report

WE DID IT!!!

WE DROVE THERE AND BACK

Final stretch to home 386 miles. Total direct map miles per Google Maps for the trip 4,821. Total miles per Old Henry's odometer 5,093.

Today was a most pleasant day. Spent the morning in church with my daughter, her husband, and 5 cute little energetic girls. On the freeway all the way home through many rain and hail storms. Grooved concrete surfaces so a lot of "bias-ply boogie".

Sure had a more dramatic welcome back to Utah than I got arriving in Alaska or Skagway. Just after crossing the border into Utah, this scene greeted us:



Yes, a full rainbow clear across the road to drive under, although we never quite got to it to drive under it.

Now I have to tell you why I will always refer to this trip as the one I drove the "Miracle Miles". Here's why:

I drive this car every day and do a road trip per month totaling about 1,000 miles per month on average. There isn't a month goes by that something doesn't break or wear out that I have to spend a few hours repairing or replacing. So, logically, since I was going to be driving 5 months worth of miles in 11 days, it makes sense that I would have at least 5 breakdowns that would take at least an hour each to fix. Right? So, how many did I have? ZERO! I stopped once to balance the back tires, which I don't call a breakdown, and adjusted the vacuum brake on the distributor. Again, not really a breakdown. Then, had to tap my generator with a hammer once to fix it. Also, not a breakdown. So, in my opinion, this trip was a complete miracle.

Driving along I spent a lot of time pondering why I had absolutely no major mechanical problems on this trip of over 5,000 miles in 12 days. This is the conclusion that I reached that you can believe or not. I believe it.

In the musical "Fiddler on the Roof", after listing all of the blessings for so many things, the Rabbi is asked, "Is there a blessing for the Tsar?" He responds that there is. Well, if there is a blessing for the Tsar, I believe that there is also a blessing for a flathead, especially if it's on the Lord's errand. "So, are you saying Old Henry was on the Lord's errand??" Yes, this is one additional agenda that we had for the trip related to the picture of the Mormon Tabernacle Choir on the sides of the car that I have not previously mentioned. Everyplace we stopped and people came up to talk about the car they often asked about the picture which led to a discussion about spiritual things and additional scriptures that further testify that Jesus Christ was who and what He said He was. Many of those people developed additional interest to the point of taking a copy of those additional scriptures and/or a CD of the choir singing. In a way, I felt like Johnny Appleseed planting seeds of faith along the way. It was just one more service that we were performing in addition to reporting the trip to all of you that gave that good feeling to us as the givers and you as the receivers. I believe that Old Henry, and all of us, were blessed with such a safe and uneventful trip in part because of the service we were rendering along the way. Believe what you like but that's how I see it.

"Hey, Ol Ron, way back there in the back, can you hear me? The answer is YES, we are there yet. Get out and go home. Thanks for riding."

[Old Henry]

Originally Posted by corvette8n

Post # 176 is certainly a post card moment, really great scenery.

Got a PM from J Witt that included this:

"I lived in Washington state for many years. . . The erosion valleys of central Washington have an incredibly interesting geological history. Really amazing country. Here's a link to some more info on the whole story. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Missoula_Floods "

I checked the link out. Very interesting.

[Old Henry]

Originally Posted by Alaska Jim

Old Henry, enjoy your trip down the California coast I think you will find the scenery very beautiful. I made that trip back in the 80's in a Triumph TR-6 , which was a lot of fun on the windy roads. be sure to make it into the Redwoods, those trees are unbelievable in person. seeing them on T.V. or in a book just doesn't do it. I jogged off the coast and went to Tillamook to visit the Cheese factory, but they were not giving tours that day, but I did buy so great cheese. enjoy your trip.-----Jim

Thanks. The Redwoods are definitely on our itinerary. They've been on my bucket list all my life.

[Old Henry]

Originally Posted by Mart

Good stuff, Prof. Continental Divide is a thing, or feature rather than a place name. It's the imaginary line where water drains into the pacific on one side and the atlantic on the other. So unless this little place was actually really called that name, it may be more likely that it was on or near the continental divide. I've seen the signs, normally at the tops of various mountain passes.

The cliffs in the pic above remind me of the car shaped cliffs in Radiator Springs in the Cars movie.

Mart.

Yes. He actually had a big sign on his place "Continental Divide".

I still remembering crossing the continental divide the first time as a kid driving through Yellowstone with the family and dad explaining what it was. I've crossed it many times since on road trips. It's usually identified with a sign and elevation. I think I crossed it three times on this trip.

Here are some more of those "Cars" style formations:

Capitol Reef National Monument:



Monument Valley



Grand Staircase - Escalante National Monument

[koates]

Thanks Craig for the great adventure and beautiful photography. By the way, don't push your luck with that generator. Pull it off and check it out before your next trip. Otherwise it might stick you up and the MAGIC HAMMER may not work a second time. Best regards, Kevin.

[Old Henry]

Originally Posted by koates

Thanks Craig for the great adventure and beautiful photography. By the way, don't push your luck with that generator. Pull it off and check it out before your next trip. Otherwise it might stick you up and the MAGIC HAMMER may not work a second time. Best regards, Kevin.

I will certainly replace the brushes before we head to California next month.

[47Sooner]

Thanks for taking us along the way !!

[flatford8]

I also think your successful trip was not due to luck.... It and you were blessed..... As were we for you sharing it with us...Thanks Again!!....... Mark

[Old Redneck]

You need to round up another generator to have for a spare when traveling on your adventures. If you have it you will never need it I have found. Thanks for the tour. I enjoyed it very much. I did buy the wife a new car to get her off my back for a couple of days. I also put several road maps in it just hopping it gets her thinking? So far it has not worked.

[Legends47]

Thank you for taking us along for the trip, your photos are awesome. Thank you for posting all of your road trips. Somewhere down the road I am sure you will be writing a book of your memories. Old Henry did it's job once again.

[Ol' Ron]

Thanks for the ride, and I always go with God, he's a great helper.

[RalphM]

Great trip! And it was amazing to have a rainbow greeting you when you got home. I think I would really enjoy one of those coffee table books every one keeps talking about.
Maybe someday when you get tired of driving, Right!

[Karl Wescott]

Originally Posted by Old Henry

Next month AnnaRae, Lady, Old Henry and I are driving the rest of California Highway 1 north from San Francisco as far north as we want to go, possibly clear to Seattle.

Oregon does not let California Highway 1 go past its border. Yet. LOL.

[Seth Swoboda]

Welcome home Old Henry, you did great. Thanks for all the hard work and dedication to bring us a daily travel log of your adventure. My dad and I really enjoyed it.

[ccnelson]

Thanks for the ride. It was a great trip. Great pictures.

[Old Henry]

Originally Posted by woodiewagon46

Henry, Did you know that Ford offered "Automatic Rear Door Safety Locks" in '46 for exactly this problem.

Yes. I actually bought a pair many years ago but thought of too many down sides to installing them.



Maybe it's time. What I really need is a warning buzzer when I turn the engine on and the back doors aren't closed tight.

[sidevalve8ba]

Originally Posted by Old Henry

What I really need is a warning buzzer when I turn the engine on and the back doors aren't closed tight.

Whoa, wait a minute now Professor. That sounds like something that would be on a NEW car. Not a '48 model!

[CarlG]

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Originally Posted by sidevalve8ba

Whoa, wait a minute now Professor. That sounds like something that would be on a NEW car. Not a '48 model!

Wait a minute!

I have an audible alarm that tells me that I left my lights on -- on my '31 Pickup.

Anything is possible!

[GB SISSON]

I have been on a short trip East of the mountains for my birthday vacation trip and realized I missed Ol' Henry coming down through Omak by about two days. I wish I coulda been there with a banner. Did anyone encounter him along the way?

[gmanrides]

Thanks for the adventure and all the fantastic scenery. Looking forward to the next one.

[Old Henry]

Originally Posted by GB SISSON

I have been on a short trip East of the mountains for my birthday vacation trip and realized I missed Ol' Henry coming down through Omak by about two days. I wish I coulda been there with a banner. Did anyone encounter him along the way?

I just missed meeting Rich "50fordcoupeman" in La Grande, Oregon as I drove through so talked to him on the phone. Also just missed Steve Staysko as I drove through Calgary so talked to him on the phone. And, if I hadn't taken the Tagish cut-off to Skagway I'da gone through Whitehorse and possibly have met ookpik there.

[Cecil/WV]

And you just missed me here in WV by about 2500 miles! Maybe next time.

[dwick01]

I got jet lag from this trip.

[51 MERC-CT]

Originally Posted by Old Henry

What I really need is a warning buzzer when I turn the engine on and the back doors aren't closed tight.

I have remote door latches on my car and had unknowingly popped the passenger door latch open. While making a left turn I detected some extra road noise and discovered the door wide open. ( no damage)
That's when I decided to install a warning buzzer. As soon as the ignition switch was turned on, if the door was unlatched the buzzer would sound. ( it has worked more than once )
I used a push button, momentary, normally closed switch.
This allows grounding one side of the switch to the body with the need to fish only one wire to one side of the buzzer.
There should be a suitable spot somewhere on the door post to locate one.

[Old Henry]

Originally Posted by 51 MERC-CT

I have remote door latches on my car and had unknowingly popped the passenger door latch open. While making a left turn I detected some extra road noise and discovered the door wide open. ( no damage)
That's when I decided to install a warning buzzer. As soon as the ignition switch was turned on, if the door was unlatched the buzzer would sound. ( it has worked more than once )
I used a push button, momentary, normally closed switch.
This allows grounding one side of the switch to the body with the need to fish only one wire to one side of the buzzer.
There should be a suitable spot somewhere on the door post to locate one.

I like it. I'd probably try to disguise the button with some black paint so it wouldn't be quite so obvious. Even as it is, it's a lot less obvious than my fender and trim caved in.

[TomT/Williamsburg]

Fantastic trip, OH - everytime you leave the house and document one of your trips it's an Odyssey we ALL enjoy. You do what we all dream about doing and so we all live and ride along vicariously with you. Thank you!

[melisa]

wonderful trip! Glad I came along. Jesus was enjoying the ride as well. Melisa

[Old Henry]

Originally Posted by Old Henry

I just missed meeting Rich "50fordcoupeman" in La Grande, Oregon as I drove through so talked to him on the phone. Also just missed Steve Staysko as I drove through Calgary so talked to him on the phone. And, if I hadn't taken the Tagish cut-off to Skagway I'da gone through Whitehorse and possibly have met ookpik there.

Originally Posted by Cecil/WV

And you just missed me here in WV by about 2500 miles! Maybe next time.

Talk about near misses, I just saw on Facebook that my neighbors were in Skagway the day after I was. Of course, they took the boat there.

And, when we were at the Welcome to Alaska sign for a picture, a bus from Skagway pulled up and a family got out that lived just 20 miles from me. They took the picture of us at the sign. Yeah, they rode the boat too.

[mike in tucson]

Skagway is an interesting town.....in the summer at least three of those huge cruise ships dock every day. The town is swamped with people until supper time and all the cruise people go back to their boat. The ships leave somewhere after dark and another comes in. The people in town had two faces....one for the cruise people (and their money) and another for the non-cruise visitors....we were in the latter group. One storekeeper asked what ship we were on and I said "we don't ride no steenking ships." Their attitude changed immediately and they were really nice people. Of course, the entire town depends upon the $hip$ for their livelihood.

[Old Henry]

Originally Posted by Mart

Good stuff, Prof. Continental Divide is a thing, or feature rather than a place name. It's the imaginary line where water drains into the pacific on one side and the atlantic on the other. So unless this little place was actually really called that name, it may be more likely that it was on or near the continental divide. I've seen the signs, normally at the tops of various mountain passes.

I was just showing my wife the map of the Yukon and, low and behold, it actually has Continental Divide on that map! Google Maps didn't have it.



And I just found a Google image of the place.



That portable building on the right is the "motel".

[Mart]

^^ Ha ha that's great!

Mart.

[48dodger]

Great thread Old Henry...really enjoyed it!

48D

[Old Henry]

A couple of videos to put you in the driver's seat (or, out on the running board, as the case may be.)

Alaska Highway: https://youtu.be/sHhDXKKwNes

Cassiar Highway: https://youtu.be/jh1gzmdFRjc

Enjoy. I sure did.

[colin1928]

Craig thanks have enjoyed ever 1 of your trips your story telling and photos are just wonderful

[Sid the Maineiac]

Thank you for a very enjoyable trip ! Sure love your sense of adventure and great spirit ! Please take us along on another "Old Henry" trip into the unknown as soon as possible !!!

[Ol' Ron]

I'd like to say that there's a documentary on U tube about the construction of the Alaskan Hy way. Very interesting. Yes Thanks again.

[Old Henry]

Originally Posted by Ol' Ron

I'd like to say that there's a documentary on U tube about the construction of the Alaskan Hy way. Very interesting. Yes Thanks again.

This is a very good one on Modern Marvels: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3sDHe2qHHw4

[Ol' Ron]

Sponsored Links (Register now to hide all advertisements)

Yes, yes, thay's the one.

[mike in tucson]

Whitehorse is where we first ordered poutaine.... in some 50's style diner. The trek from Skagway/Dyea to Whitehorse must have been quite a trek during the gold rush but now it is a smooth drive with little traffic.

[Old Henry]

Originally Posted by mike in tucson

Whitehorse is where we first ordered poutaine.... in some 50's style diner. The trek from Skagway/Dyea to Whitehorse must have been quite a trek during the gold rush but now it is a smooth drive with little traffic.

Originally Posted by mike in tucson

Skagway is an interesting town.....in the summer at least three of those huge cruise ships dock every day. The town is swamped with people until supper time and all the cruise people go back to their boat. The ships leave somewhere after dark and another comes in. The people in town had two faces....one for the cruise people (and their money) and another for the non-cruise visitors....we were in the latter group. One storekeeper asked what ship we were on and I said "we don't ride no steenking ships." Their attitude changed immediately and they were really nice people. Of course, the entire town depends upon the $hip$ for their livelihood.

So, did you drive there from Tucson? If so, your drive beats mine by some!

[Don]

I believe a guy would be in trouble if he had to get off the road if he had car trouble !!!

[expavr]

Thanks for another Great travelogue...!!!! I don't know how you managed to put up with all that "bumper to bumper" traffic on the Cassiar Hwy....

[Ross F-1]

Sheesh, both those highways are smoother than the streets in my neighborhood...

[VeryTangled]

Prof, thanks for sharing the videos. I even looked up Toad River on the satellite.

Did you encounter much traffic or trucks?

If you don't mind an off-topic question, what was it about this video that got it over 1.3M views? https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wY389S_KUjs

[Old Henry]

Originally Posted by VeryTangled

Prof, thanks for sharing the videos. I even looked up Toad River on the satellite.

Did you encounter much traffic or trucks?

If you don't mind an off-topic question, what was it about this video that got it over 1.3M views? https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wY389S_KUjs

Didn't encounter much of any traffic.

As for the video of starting Old Henry's engine after sitting 31 years, I'm probably biased, but, I think it is one of the best videos of an old engine starting up that I've ever seen. It has a nice long lead in and build up of the very minimal preparations for starting. It has a very emotional reaction to it actually starting, even as Gene Wilder had to bringing his monster to life in "Young Frankenstein", a very suspenseful restart after first start, and it has great close ups of the engine running on half a generator pulley and frayed fan belts slinging threads, amidst the cobwebs and debris from the ages that it sat.



In three months it will be 10 years since starting that engine. In the interim, I've driven it 95,000 miles.

[51 MERC-CT]

How fitting. The last words of the video, "We're good to go"

[Steve Staysko]

For us Canadians, Australians, New Zealander's, all of Europe thats 152,887 Kilometres and I grew up with imperial measurements and I still convert to Fahrenheit.

[flatford8]

O-H.... Great videos! Great music with them!... But one question.... At the begining of the first one..... Did you go around the little rotary the wrong way??..... Aren't we supposed to keep the center to our left??..... Mark

[Old Henry]

Originally Posted by flatford8

O-H.... Great videos! Great music with them!... But one question.... At the begining of the first one..... Did you go around the little rotary the wrong way??..... Aren't we supposed to keep the center to our left??..... Mark

Good eye. I wondered if anyone would notice. I'm sure the guy stopped at the light did.

I tried it the "right" way around first but the camera was too close to the sign so did it the other way 'round and it worked.

[colin1928]

Originally Posted by Old Henry

Good eye. I wondered if anyone would notice. I'm sure the guy stopped at the light did.

I tried it the "right" way around first but the camera was too close to the sign so did it the other way 'round and it worked.

Looked correct to me

[flatford8]

Haha... You're always aiming to please..... Well focused video and something for the members down under...... Good job!!!.... Mark

[Brendan]

Originally Posted by Old Henry

Next month AnnaRae, Lady, Old Henry and I are driving the rest of California Highway 1 north from San Francisco as far north as we want to go, possibly clear to Seattle.

T
Thanks Henry! i could buy you lunch when you come out hear!

[Ol' Ron]

I don't recommend, poring gas into the carb, one back fire could spoil you day. I worry about that everytime I do it.

[Old Henry]

This thread restated here for further comments: https://www.fordbarn.com/forum/showthread.php?t=197565