Long drive ahead...

Jimmy Buffit · 12-19-03, 06:08

I just bought a '92 Mazda Miata (Black over Tan Leather). 43,000 miles. I'll use it as a Showroom example of the results of continuing detailing. I'm excited.

But, here's the deal: I'm in Indy, and the car is in Wash, DC.

I'll fly over there, and what 'precautions' should one consider before making a LONG drive home? I'm quite close to ordering a bra, having it shipped to the seller, for installation b/4 we drive.

Go ahead, Tell me everything, from what plates I need, to how to protect this gem (I hope).

Jim

Greg · 12-19-03, 08:27

You could just tape up the front end with blue painters tape. I would figure that would significantly help and prevent rock chips. With 43,000 miles however, it is probably going to have some anyway, if this is going to be a show car, it probably wouldn't be that expensive to have the front resprayed. I know Viper and Porsche guys that get their front ends resprayed every year probably. If you do get a bra, make sure its on well and put some blue painters tape over where it might flap because that can cause scratching. Good luck and post some pics!

bretfraz · 12-19-03, 08:29

I dunno, I've done a ton of long distance driving (I drove over 6000 miles in the month of Sept, for example) and I've never done much of anything in the way of precautions beyond the common sense stuff.

What is that, about 600 miles? That's a one day trip without a problem.

You prolly should check each state's DOT website to learn where construction areas are. I don't know if there's some sort of national database for road conditions. Watch the Weather Channel the day before and of your trip just in case any weird weather pops up.

Beyond that its just basic stuff - change the oil and filter if needed, check all the filters and whatnot, set your tire pressures, check wipers, washers, and all lights. Bring your fave road music, a decent map, some munchies and beverages, and don't forget your shades. Bring your cell phone and the cig adapter.

Have some cash for the PA turnpike toll booths. Watch your speed in Ohio (shouldn't be a problem as the roads in Ohio suck bad). I don't think plates are a problem as each state has its own regulations meaning you cannot be expected to satisfy every state you'll travel thru. As long as you have paperwork stating you're the new legal owner, the cops shouldn't bust your chops. Oh, and don't forget insurance. The cops can bust you for that one.

It's an easy trip along I-70. Have fun!!!

BradE · 12-19-03, 08:45

Quote:

Originally posted by bretfraz
Watch your speed in Ohio (shouldn't be a problem as the roads in Ohio suck bad).

No way! They are craptacular.

Brad B. · 12-20-03, 08:16

I use the tape trick, too, if the car is perfect. I picked up my new Cooper S in Indy and drove it home to St. Louis. I wanted it perfect before I could get a clear bra installed. I did thet three days later!

Jimmy Buffit · 12-21-03, 04:37

Thanks for everyone's help! I'm off to the airport! Hope they let me on the plane with rolls of Painter's and Gaffer's Tape!

Jim

Mosca · 12-21-03, 09:54

Wow; congrats!

One of the nice things about the Miata is that it's so small and you don't have to do the roof. Oh, and you don't have to do the rear seating compartment.

If you wouldn't mind, could you share some of your knowledge at the Car Care section of Miata Forum? Most people over there aren't "crazy go nuts" like people here are, but they do want to take care of their cars. It's mostly constant repetition of the basics rather than debating the efficacy of S100 vs #26, but the more repetition, the more it sinks in.

Enjoy your Miata, they are truly wonderful machines.

Tom

Greg · 12-22-03, 08:08

My neighbor has 2 greddy turbo'd miatas. I think he posts under the name of Jim 15 PSI or something like that on the miata boards. Pretty sweet little cars.

Jimmy Buffit · 12-22-03, 07:20

600 miles later... Well, I'm home! Batteries dead in the camera - pics to follow!

Sweet! That's what I know so far!

FYI - I bought a *NEW* Miata in 90 (all the tricks, including the hardtop - lost it in a flood with 1250 miles!) So, now I'm back...

It is the bomb! Leather & BBS & more. Clean? Yeah, but it needs the Autopian touch - white wax in crevices, on the light lenses, more stuff like that. Very clean, for 12 years old, but it will really stand out after three or four full days in my shop. I'm shooting for something *just* below concourse level. LOTS of pics over the next two weeks...

The bad news is that it seems I'll have the time to do this...

Mosca: I'll certainly keep the Miata Forum in mind as I post... Miata.net has SO much info, I have not had a chance to absorb much yet... methinks I'm hooked on some new addiction, again!!!

Jim

Jimmy Buffit · 12-24-03, 04:37

So I ran in the rain for about the last 75 miles... the color coordination was pure coincidence.

Jim