{j/"eCol'tez _.

National

11022 EAST DAINES DRivE, TEMPlE CITY. CALIFORNIA 91780 • (B1 B) 444-6030 .' (B1BI 448-9225 (FAX,

Volume 18. No.4

July-September 1993

Jan & Tony Noto, Editors

FROM THE EDITOR'S DESK

This issue is getting to you a bit later than usual. for which we apologize. Because of thecircumstances of our schedule and timing of the rail ies vers us 0 ur u sual deadli nc s, we opted to hold the presses for several weeks. Therefore, this becomes our combined July - September newsletter and the next issue will be published in.November,

There are quite a number of items em the. agenda to cover, some of which were presented 3:1 The National Rally (June) in Cortez. Colorado.

The first and most important is a reference to the increase in annual dues from $15 to $20. Similarly, and also beginning with the new year, the initiation fee to join The National will be increased from $30 to $35.

It's been some time since there was an increase in dues. i 986 to be exact. and since then the overall cost of operations has increased considerably. The additional amount will take cafe of that as well as

""-'" 'f;- .. t and S\.lppJies.,

Altho the end of the year seems to be some time away. it would he well appreciated if all could get their dues in as soon as possible to make it a bit easier to complete the cullecnon process promptly and then allow us to move 'On to the second step. which is compiling and updating the membership roster for 1994, Make your check payable to The Cortez National and send it to The National ASAP.

We are always in need of cross-reference pan numbers, places of service, service.tips, and other technical information. This type of input is especially important as we will soon begin revising and updating the Cortez. National Directory, Please send whatever information you have so that it can be included in the new directory,

Likewise much of the information and material contained in the newsletter is contributed by you. the members, Items dealing with parts, service. modifications. and other information of interest to Cortezzers is always welcomed. Your .arricles don't have to 'be perfectly prepared, just legibly hand-written or typed, we'll take care of the rest.

The 20th National Cortez Rally in ortez, Colorado was a homecoming for '-many of us as we returned to the site of The Nauonal's beginnings for the third time. It

.. , continued on pafW3

DUES CAMPAIGN

Tile calendar year for The National runs from January to December. Beginning in 1994 annual dues will be $20, As most of you know, it is the latter part of the year when our annual campaign gets underway. It is important that we complete the dues collection process as promptly as possible so that we can move on to The second step; which is compiling and updating the membership roster for 1994. Although we have set a deadline of December l Sth, it would be nice if all dues were in before that final date. Check your listing as it was published in the directory, and/orfor newer mem bers, as it was listed in the newsletter for accuracy, Please, let us know if there are any changes (address, phone number. coach, parking). This will nut only.allow lip to update your file, but also reflect those changes in the new directory,

INITIATION FEE

The initiation fee 10 join The National will increase from $30 to $35. The new member receives a special packet containing The National Directory, numerous back issues of the newsletter. and any lists, information sheets and addendum that were published daringback.to the first of the year in which the member joined. By bringing a new member up-to-dare with the current membership, it allows us to maintain an effective annual dues period of January to December.

EASTERN REGIONAL RALLY

The Cortez Eastern Regional Rally (July 26,27.28. and 29, 1993) was held at Lake Park Camping area in Coshocton. Ohio near the restored historical Roscoe Village. Wagonsmasters Denny and Nancy Miller put together a super rallyschedule for the four-day event.

There were morning coffee klatches with donuts and a happy hour each evening. Monday (July 26) was set aside at getting acquainted and exploring Rosco Village. Tuesday's events included women's craft sessions, a mechanic's forum, an afternoon

. __ continued on page 4

IN MEMORIAM

Clarke Deacon- Los Angeles, CA Wiley Byers -New Smyrna Beach, FL -Georgia Orbaugh - Elwood, IN

NATIONAL CORTEZ RALLY The 20th National Cortez Rally was held at the Lazy G Campground in Cortez, Colorado on June 8_ 9, and 10" 1993.

It was a homecoming. for many of us as we returned In the site of The National's beginnings for the third time. The first was in August of 1975 and the second was iii August of 1983_ This time, however, the weather and the temperatures were much different. It was reported that the first. overnight dropped to' 3J degrees and some claimed to have seen signs of frost here and there. It was quite a different story during the day, warm, sunny; windy and periods of maybe it would rain. maybe it would not. But all in all. it was an enjoyable variety of What Mother Nature had 10 offer.

Because of some last minute changes to my schedule, Jan and I did not arrive until late Tuesday evening. So the task of welcoming, parking, and ram-rodding the events of the. first day were ably handled by Dana & Marilyn Keech of Aurora, Colorado and Leonard & Louisa: Steele of Denver. Colorado. The Mechanic's Forum and the Cortez Living segment went 011 without a, hitch. The coolness of the early evening and Mother Nature dictated that the Fancy' Hots docuvres Happy and Social Hour take place in the Lazy G's banquet hall.

The overall arrangement with Campground. Motel, and Restaurant; with banquet hall below. made it all very convenient for us.

Wednesday morning •. June 9th. we began with our morning coffee klatch. During and right after. and one day late. registration began and goody bags given out.

That was no sooner completed and it was time for the business meeting. It gave Jan and I a chance to officially welcome everyone to the 20th National Cortez Rally and thank those who helped with the convention. Those at the rally for the first time were recognized as were Leonard and Louisa-Steele for their perfect attendance:

Leonard and Louisa havernade every National Cortez Rally. since the very first in 1973. The business meeting also provided an opportunity to present information of specific and general interest to Cortezzers and to review the 'Various policies and operations, of The National.

. _ . continued 011 page 4

• THE SHADE TREE MECHANIC

STEERING PROBLEMS

.This is a item of note thatappliestu both the Clark and the Kentmodel coaches.

Most owners know that looseness in the idler arm - bell crank . can cause erratic steering but some do 110t re atize that rebushingis nOI always a cure. If the king pin is worn to ataper - one .. end smaller than the other- or egg-shaped from continual wear ina small arc - it can not beproperly rebushed, A difference of _()()3 inch-from top . i:o bottom of the king-pin will allow 1.00 inch free movement in the wheel alignment . toe inltoe our- causing wander or darting of the vehicle and requiring continual steering correction. Improper raising of the vehicle can' give' an erroneous impression that there .is no play in the idlers as the tie rods may be preventing movement, Do not jack up the body. Raise one wheel only with the jack . under the lower support-arm. ·If this wheel can. be moved atall, there is some play in the steering Iinkage.probably in the idlers.

The king pin on the Clad and the Kent 'models are identical 11/4 by 8 1/2.inch with a head that requires themto-be removed upwards hom the block YIelded in the frame.There is only 7 incbei; fromrhe top of .the block to the body. frame sa to remove the pin the chassis must be lowered I i/2 inches or the pin cut, The pin mustbe reworked ora new One made by a good machinist. The pin is driven into the block nnthe frame with a very. tight press fit. I got one. out of an old Clark. chassis with many wacks of a ten pound sledge, The-one in my Kent model I cut and pressedupwards with a jack, but it raised the coach until I used heat and a. Pneumatic hammer .. 1 had a machini st remove the head from the replacement pin and wort down the endgoing.into the block to a slip fit, Then I secured the pin in the block with two vre by 1.1)2 capscrewstaped into (he side of the block to shoulder. the pin - oneon.each side and staggered up and down, Of course, the. pin can in this way be insetted. from the bottom arid. removed easily ifrequired.

Tom Matlack '7,~ Cortez Bryson City, N:C 28713

KENT ACCELERATOR CABLE

Recently, while researching some Ford parts, I looked for theaccelerator cable, Ford part number D3HZ9A758A., listed in the directory for Kent model coaches, lleamed that it had been discontinued .andithe inventory recalled. Thus. the. number is. no longervalid, With this still in mind, lfound a place In Phoenix, Arizona that will make any cable you need by making a copy of the old cable. As an aside; I also had II speedometer

overhauled at the shop. The name is Dick's Speed-OTach,.Inc.,4325 N. 7th St., Phoenix, AZ 85014, 602-219"646:3. They also have a shop at ,the Hayden Auio Plaza; i9{)O N_ McClintock, Tempe, AZ '85281, 602994- 9022: Roger Newcomer is the president-of the 'company. In addition to-foreign and domestic speedometer and tack repair, they also specialize in push-pull cables; the onesthat seem to be frozen on.mostcoaches.

A.I Chamberlin '77 Cortez RoseVo'ell NM8R201-47J9

ELECTRIC FUEL PUMP

I'spent' some amount oftime researching an electric fuel pump- to-use on- my '74 Cortez. The Carter number P407Q is now made for NAPA as NApA pan number .4070 . The.pumpis not manufactured asa.flow-thru unit, Maybe it was at one time, but not now ad checked Vfith the factory .

I used standard one-way check valves to prevent backftow. Oneon-the outputside of me pump and the otherin the by-pass linefrom me main 'fuel tank. These were available from a marine hydraulic supply store in my area 0/4- inch size). I installed a momentary on switch mounted on the dash 10 activate tile pump, I use the switch only for starting. Another benefit - it.has.solved my vapor Jock problems,

Jerry Girard '74 Cortez Sugarloaf Shores, FL 33044

SERVICE FACILITY

Here is another addltionforThe National Directory: OverstreetA uta Repair.50Z Guiseppe Court #'],Roseviile, CA 95678, 916-773·4.710 {Office) 91.6-747-5379 (Mobile Phone).

We experienced a problem with our '74- Cortez during the return leg of the Viajeros Spring. Outing (Southern California Cortez Club). Fortunately we were at a.Sacrarncnto campground and not. in any panic situation.

I called -Good Sam to see what they offered in the way of help. Their option was. to tow itto the nearest GMdealer, I preferred not to have it lowed: if at all possible.

I had good experience at home III the Leis Osos area with one of the mobile repair trucks. I decided then to callOverstreet in Roseville. My call went out at 7:30 AM and T was mid thatthe service truck would be there. at 12:30 PM,

The appointment was kept and the technician went about making the repair - the distributor plate with the breaker points had gotten Out of position. The techre-adjustcd. the plate and, with an electronic checker, set the-points. Total time spern.on the problem was one-half hour and the charge was $35.

2

We strongly SUppOTl the mobile service concept when yourproblem will permit your staying where you are safely -off the road. and when you do not have a major failure.

Bob Hoffman '74 Cortez Los Osos,CA 93402

cv JOINT ALTERNATIVE

CV Joints as with all otherspecial 'items can be difficuh at times. John Latr has. informedThe National that he has an alternative solution for you .

John writes, "Are your Cortez CY Joints worn o~t arid .. noisy'?Call me, John Lartfor conversion and .informationon changing over to readily available Revcon CVJoints,

John Lati '69 Cortez Vallejo,CA 94590 916·777-5760

ENGINE MOUNTS

A. suggestion to those with the Kent mood coaches; check the rear engine mount ASAP. All of the weldson my '72 Cortez were broken except for the one at the extreme left comer - just 'barely hangingon.

Richard Freeman '11 Cortez Burbank. CA 91506

TUBE & TIRE CARE

While driving around .the U.S., developed a slow leak on my Clark 16-inch tube-type nre.Lchanged to the spare and soon learned that 5:30PM Saturday was no time to locate an open truck tire facility even in Syracuse,NY. So we apprehensively drove the next 500 miles with no useable spare,

In Lowell, MA, I Iocaredacempetent, older tire mechanic able to work on a snap ring (split rim) wheel. He identified the source·of'the problem anl1 this is why I .am Writing. After several previous flattires, all caused by leaks at the valve stem location. I learned of the existence and advantage of using only solid brass, pre-bent 90 degree valve stem innertubes. While hard to locate, theyare the only satisfactory inner rube to use ona Cortez. As a precaution, I then changed to the. better type inner tube;

U nf ortunatel y, I didn 't fCOlJ ize that correc i procedurecalls for spreading the tire and vacuuming out the debristhatcan collecton the inside (we found i 12c(lup or so of dirt and fine metal particles) and work against the innertube and result in-the tiny friction holt: that.caused my leak. Further, a ·non-radial flap 'hOld been installedand this abettedthe

cleanliness problem by refitting. .

Jack Stanfield Tire (402Chdmsford SI.",:""", Lowell. MA 01851. 50S-452,9(00) was so expertthat he. saved me a balancing expense.

He marked the Wheel and tire and When

reas~e,mhl,iJ)gthe unit; he, realigned the whole affair and told me that-if ithad been in balance before,'it would siillbe,so,

While snap-ring (split rim) wheels offer ""'" exira challeng~s, I do believe that with '-proper preoauuons, they can continue to serve Clark owners well.

I wonder if any Clark owners have tried carrying a second, spare under the C9athpossibly recessing the belly pan for additional clearance - and using a truck -sryle cross brace. J have seen nne Cortez with a second s!lan: mounted below the factory instal'led position; but am not sure this is the best route. Any suggestions would beappreciated.

Harland Ranney'66 Cortez 1021 Leesdale CLF!. Collins, Co B0521

TIRE SOURCE/SERVICE

I have .another addition for The National Directory: Alex Taravati, Freeway Tire Service, 25741 Obero, Mission Viejo, CA 92691,714-586'1143,

, ,WereplacedtheWinston Camperl2xlO.5 bias ply tires with Goodyear G~159 '9.50RxI65 LRE tires, on the correct wheels, of course .. What an amazing change in comfort. not to mention {he nylon-memory pound of the Winstoniiresbefore, warm-up. The tires were purchased at Freeway Tire aDd both .price and service - very satisfactory.

Pete' Hallock/Lucie de joungc"74 Cortez Laguna Beach, CA 92651.

"-"' SOUNDIHEATINSULATION

Sometime ago werried the J.C. Whitney Fiherglas insulation. mentioned by the National in the newsletter, or somewhere. Anyhow,althoug.hit helped noise suppression-on our engine hatch covers, the thin aluminum foil covering self-destructed, and we suspect some was even sucked into the air cleaner on .our last trip.

So, we now have replaced thiswith J.e.

Whitney Mylar-Faced Foam Sound/Heat Insulation _(Catalog. 12-J292W) .. this 1/2- inch aluminum MylarFoam is apparently as sound deadeningly effective (is deadeningly a word .. ?) and very neat and seemingly much cleaner: Anyhow, the Mylar seems tough, but we will report our findings after our return trip from the Trinty Alps (be-,tween

Eureka-Mt Shasta) area. . .

,We opted for the l{2-inch Mylar stuff, in that we have very limited hatch clearance in 'our '74 Cortez by virtue of a 9hanged.air cleaner 10 make room for the H.E.I. I would .have preferred the I" thick stuff. (Pete HallockrLucie de lounge, Laguna Beach, CA 92651.)

SHOWER FOOT MAT

.. We (eported(Shower Board, .Page 5,

"-March, 1993 National Newsletter) using Camping World folding redwood shower packs for standing on in' our '74'Conez, lifting our feet off the. floor, and keeping the fiberglas dampness' away from our feet when we arc the

bathroom, but not using the shower.

Although ihese redwood floorboards were satisfactory, they stained the fiberglas, and are about I inch thick, in my case, pushing my head to touch the ceiling of the bathroom.

Ori our May trip, we found. a terrific shower pad bcingustd in KOA Fredricksburg (VA) and 'other. KONs, We wer about to call this KOA, when we. found the mats offer in browsing through the Dunn's (supply house) catalog.

The Dri~Dck vinyl pads are available in a 3 by 4-foof sheet (#70-568)f~r $49.95. a 3by 12"foot roll (#70-569) for $149:99, as 12 by 12-inchsnap together.tiles (#70-567) for $3.99 which can be used with their 21ly Ii-inch edge pieces and their 2 by 2-inch .corner pieces.

The almond colored Vinyl mats are treated against mildew, fungi, and bacteria attack. They are comfortable to stand on and are easilycleaned, The Dri-Dek.pads are used by dog owners to keep their pets clean and sanitary, off cement floors in their runs etc" and can be quickly hosed off: .,

If you cant find the Dri -Dek roll sand tiles at a nearby large pel supply store, contact Dunn"s Supply House,Grand Junction. TN 38039; 800-223~8667 and ask for their handsomecatalog, Another source is Econo-Vet Wholesale, 800-451-4162.

Pete HaUock/Lueie de Jounge '74Cortez Li~uria B'each:CA 92651

FLUORESCENT LIGHT

The Cortez National mentions a Tek- Tron 12 VOII AC or pC Fluorescent light in the Julyl 992 newsletter. Lordered one, however by check was retumedalong with a letter. It stared.thatavailability was stillsome months away and would be advised when the units

came onihe market: . . . .,.. .

As a matter of reference, the light is a compact under-the-counter fluorescent light and one of the most efficient on the market, It produces about 825 lumens which is roughly the equivalent of a 60-watt incandescent light and has a special lens to diffuse light over a wide area. A double unit, twice the size of the RV-12 is available and will provide twice the light. Tek -Tron Enterprises, 3122 W. Alpine Ave"Santa

Ana, CA 92704, 714-641-2005. .

Al Chamberlin '77 Cortez Roswell, NM 8.8201

. LEVELLERS

8-LEVELS are 6-1/4 X 6-1/4 X 33-inch cross-hatch plastic inclined ramps to level a Cortez. The pair weigh 9 pounds and advertise abllity.to support 1:1,000 pounds each. They are black and both easy to keep -c lean and inconspicuous.Gernstnne I:.quipment,7!i0 E. EaxySt.iSirni Valley, CA 93065, gO~-~27-6990. They list for about $60 but .I was able to haggle a set for $40

plus UPS. .

Harland Ranney '66 Cortez

-'~,-'--,

Prom.the Editor's Desk . , . continued from pg. 1

was there -that Jan and [ first proposed the idea of getting all Cortez-owners together .under one umbrella group for the benefit of all. ASH .friend of mine often commented with each piece of correspondence, "much "!,31er has gone under the bridge and over the dam since l lastcontacted you" and such is the case here. We hope to be able to continue with those abilities that we first presented at the first meet j;Cortez on the small lawn adjacent to the high school parkirig.Iot in Cortez, Colorado. Over all.of those years, there have been many who have helped in the cause, for which Jan and I

offer our sincerethanks and gratitude. .

We are pleased to report that both ofthe failles in the East wentvery well, Ttlt; Cortez Eastern Regional Rally (July 26, 27, 28, and2g, 1993) was held at Lake Park Camping area in Coshocton, Ohio near-the restored historical Roscoe. Village. Wagonsmasters Dennyand Nancy Miller did a great job and purtogether a super rally schedule for the four-dayevent, bur thanks to Bill Shugert forproviding the report on

the Regional. .

The FMC~'s 30th' Annual Summer Grand International Con~en!ion"Roads To The Blue'Ridge" was held on the grounds of VirginiaPolytechnic Institute and Slate Un ive rsityjn Blacksburg, Virginia 011 August 3rd,.4Ih, and 5ih. Larry & Olive Lantagne report that there were 21 Chapter membersthere with 8Conezes in the group, The FMCA summer-rally next year will be held again in Puyallup, Washington on

August 2, 3, 4, 1993.' ..

In this issue of the newsletter you will find a wide variety of information and topicsto help ,you with your Coriezzing.

Tom Matlack notes that mostowners know that looseness in. the idler arm' - bell crank -can causeerratic steeringb~L some do not realize thatrebushing is not always a cure and explains why arid what to ,do'. Al Chamberlin has an two updates -one onthe Kent accelerator cable and the name ora shop where you can get one made, and the other on .afluorescent light mentioned in earlier issue ofthe newsletter, Jerry Girard spent some amount of time researching an electric fuel pump to use on his '74 Cortez and details that installation. Bob Hoffman provides us With another place of service and recommends using the- mobile service concept When your problem will permit staying where you are (safely off the road). and do not have a major failure. John Latt has some good news on a CV Joint alternative and Richard Freeman cautions about checking engine mounts. Pete Hallock has several notesin this .issue -vanother tire and service place, an update on insulating-the erigine compartment: to heat and sound, one

.. , continued on page, 4

- - - -- -- ------------------------------- --

ali a shower foot mat, and 'some lnformadon on a bicycle. rack. Fred Franle,in his El Periodico column, describes why suddenand terrible noises from the engine not orily brought them 10 .quick stop off the highway; but deferred plans to. make it.toThe National CortezRally.F"

Speaking of get-aways. it's rirneto start seriously thmkingabout joining in onthe Third Annual Hernando's Rideaway.DavcllIldLovey Mundayhave taken the reins to wagonmaster Hernando's Rideaway and P'Vvideyou with !he needed info about thC trip.

In addition to some other new products mentioned in this. iSSUe, you- will also find some new Classified Iistingsofcoaches as well as parts for sale; new places of service, and several new member's are introduced,

Our thanks to those woo contributed material and· informanon for this issue of the newsletter,

.' Etlsiem Regw1liJl RaUy _ .. continued from pg. 1

canal boat ride, an . evening happy hOUT and pot . Iuck supper. Wednesday· included a trip to the Longaberger Basket Factory arid a .tour of the factory mUseum and visit-to the shops. A Hamburger and hot dog roast and ice .creamsocial topped off the evening, Thursday included a catered surprise dinner and live entertainmentFriday was a day of departure with a caravan to leave for the FMCA convention in Blacksburg, Vrrgi1:Jia,

All of tile days and nights-slipped by wiih something going onconstantly - cards, horse shoes, sightseeing; little gatherings, large gatherings, mechanics forums .. mechanical repairs, visits to-famous Roscoe Viflagevand tripsto Coshocton for parts, supplies, and meals; etc. Allin all, it was almost non-stop, tho we did regularly feir a good night's rest. That is except fOT Wednesday night mat-about B PM. A mini tornado swept through camp "Matlacks~s arid Hcnderson'sCortezes were damaged by fallen trees, two other coaches. had awnings that were totalled, (Both coaches were driveahle and able to make it horne.) Nerves. were shattered except" in two coaches where the occupantssleptthrough the wholething,

Nonetheless -there were many more pleasant memories lIridsome of the highlights of note included a "trip on. the restored Erie Canal with-an-unexpected stop to extricate a tree thathad fallen across the canal, Dave Munday and othersgave it a go, but it wasfinally hauled away by Dukeand Doc the two-horse pulling the boat. There. were a lot of great places in town to eat and a Monday night caravan hitone of the choice places. The area is also Amish country and there were many craft and specialty shops' for US 10 visit. One popular stop was the ice cream shop. The 'Thursday night catered 'dinner included cake for desert. The cakewas decorated wiih a picture of a COrtez and it was .difficultto

have to cui it up inedible pieces. The good times continued even w.ith some.of the moments- of more. concern.

A total of 41 coaches were at the Regional of which 11 were.Cortezes - Dick & Mary Lou ATON, Howard & Lorene -WEEKS, Tom & Pat MATLACK, Gus & Dorothy BONFERT, Fred & Anne JEFFERS, Glenn & Emmylou DORNAUS, Dave & Lavey MUNDAY, Dave & Rosalie MARKS, Roy & Margie FRIES, Frank & Martha SPRAITZAR,John & Marjorie KILL, Maury & Barb PERKINSON, Gil & Waneta GRAY, Steve & Teresa MILLER, Wade &. Judy HENDE;RSON, Art & Evelyn MILLER, Ray & Shirley STOKOE,Max & MarieGRIQSBY,- Denny &' Nancy MiLLER, .Jack & Isabelle ORSBORNE & Joe & Caryl HATTON.

Nilliorial. Cortez. RaUJ ... contmued frompg, J

The afternoon Mechanic's Forum went well, hosted by Dana Keech: Nearby, an onsite session wastaking place as. Charlie Hill and-about 4 .or 5 other guys craftily worked on his engine. With the hands of surgeons they cut, drilled, rernovedvreplaced.and generally did open heart surgery -011 the Toronado. That's what is so great about Cortezzers, they are always ready to pitch-in when someeoehas mechanical troubles.

The Swap Meet..went well withCortez wares assembled in front of coachesvThe Crafts Sales .arid Displays ses-sion was moved indoors to the banquet hall-beneath the restaurantas the skies darkened and the wind came up. Nothing changing with the weather, the Wednesday Evening 'Happy Hour-remained indoors and twice as many door prizes were awarded to make up for the miss on Tuesday night

Thursday, June 10, began as all other mornings with Coffee and DOnuts. It was during this-rime that Byron McKel-vie, a reporter/photographer fOT the Cortez newspaper showed up. He asked questions and took 'Several pictures and was . quite aware of our previous visits to the city. Jan and I enjoyed an extended conversation with. Byron and inquired about some of the businesspeople we worked with for the-Second National Rally in19?5 and tbe 10ili National Rany in 19!B.

Two Open House periods, a Mechanic's Forum; working onthe coaches, picking up supplies and 'various otherchores took care of most of Thursday. The afternoon and evening weather was' its best so, the evening Happy Hour took placein what was OUT central gathering area (where most of 'the picnic tableswereparked). It was It time toenjoy the final evening together wi th much- talk and conversation about morning departures and who was going where and-with whom.

All in all everything went very well, thank stto. Dana & Mar ilyn Keech and Leonard.& Louisa Steele for jumping right

4.

in on the first day to cover for us.

The, 20th N ati on a I Corte z Rall y was anothergreat rally with a final coach count of 43 phis 7 of us who. came by carol' other

vehicle-to enjoy all or part of the. raUy. ..J,

In closing Jan and I would like to thank all of you who came to the rally and to those who pitched in and helped out. It will go down in our memorybookofgood times.

ATTENDEES

SHAW. Robert & Louise , II)

PENCE, Ray & Jean ,., NV

HOFFlNS; Ray & Dorothy __ _. .. _. __ CO

STEELE,Lwnard & Louisa , "., _ .. _._. CO

PICKTON, Wah & Fai.th _" .. .. MT

HILL, Charlie & Christine .. __ , " .; OK

MlLLER,Dick & Joari , CA

AWN, Dick &·Mary Lou , .. , ,_ , .. , FL

WEEKS. Howard & Lorene , VA

'CAIRNS,Tom &·Mickie , ; AZ

SHERMAN, Ed & Palma ., ,., , .. __ __ , .. , AZ

ALBERS; Bill & Catherine , c _ •••••• ; TX

LANFORD, Fred & Mary }o_ .• __ _ » .. TX

BROOKS. Emerson & Betty ..................•......... TX

REYNOLDS, Bob & Doris , " , TX

NELSON,Rudy& Arlene _ __ IA

BALL, Norm _._._ _ " UT

BENNETT, Sian & Sonya , , CA

JURNECKA.]oe& R,llth .. - - - .. -- -.--.-- CA

EARNEST, Ernie & Dale .. _ AZ

COX, Harold & Ann cA

DETWILER, Harry & Doris , , CA

KE.ECH" Dana & Marilyn ...•.... ,,, , CO

KEECH. Del. & Doimii , .. , __ _ CO

~~~~~; r;!~~~a;:~~;.::~::::::::::::::::::::::::::: ~.t.

HEGARTY; Donn & Anita , ,. AZ

~=~~~'i~l1~n~I,~~~,::::::::::::::: .. ::: :::::.~

COOK, Bob & Belsy - , AZ

DOWNEN. DanzcBetty.i.. , CA

DUi'i'LAP, Jack 4<Soon .. , , .. , , CA

OLDHAM, John & Janet. _ .. _ __ _., OR

ORSBORN, Jac", Isabel & grandson Russell., OR

SlNGHOSE, Jim &. Rose Mary ......... _ .. _, .. _. OR

SINGHOSE,l.eooard & Judy & Judy's mom II)

TRUESDALE. Harry _ , , _CO

VAN SANTEN, Dick & Osie _" .. , .. OR

HARRISON, .Bill & Jean ,._.,_._ _._ .. __ .. _.. AZ_

MUNSEY, Del & Alice , . OR

COONROD. AI & Jean _ , .. , ., WY

MARKS. David &nepliew ArthurMarks L;» NY

MtQUlNNEY, Richard & Linda -: CO

WILDER. Charles ,,_ _ .. __ CO

PAGE,Helen & sonJohn , , ,, , __ .... CA

VODDEN.Don& Martha &gnindwil Justin .. TX

GRIMES,AI.& Jackie, ., , , AZ

CLERC, Leonard & Doris , CA

soro. Tony & Jan , -: CA

. RICHMOND. Pat &. Helenn Gripp ... _ ... __ ... _ ... CO

NEED FOR MORE DlRECT()RY INFORMATION

We are always in need ·of cross-reference pan numbcrsrplacesof service, service tips. and o~crtethnical. information. This rypeo.,_ mpuris especially Important as we WIll soon begin revising and updating (he Cortez National Directory. Please send whatever information. you have so that it .c an be included in the new directory.

NEWSLETTER ARTICLES WANTED

Much of the information and material

~ contained in the newsletter is contributed by the members. Items dealing with parts, service, modifications, and other information of interest to Cortezzers is al ways welcomed. Your articles don't havetobe perfectly prepared, just legibly hand-written or typed, we'll take care of the rest.

EL PERIODICO

Well, itfinally happened - for the first time in 20 years we missed a National Cortez Rally, thus leaving to Louisa & Leonard Steele the distinctive honors for perfect attendance.

It certainly wasn't intentional for we had prepared our Cortez-with the usual attention 10 wheel bearings, oil change, lubrication, air conditioning, etc., and set out Thursday. June 3rd, giving us plenty of time for the leisurely 1200 mile journey,

So we were happily traveling eastward on 1-80 and were only ISO miles from home when suddenly terrible noises from the engine brought us to a quick stop off the highway, It sounded as though a connecting rod had become disconnected whith meant we weren't going anywhere very soon.

A tow 10 a wayside garage in the nearby

~ town of Newcastle was arranged and after 11,. brief examination the consensus was that the boitom end of the engine would have to be opened up to see how much damage had been done and what repairs, if possible, .could be effected. It might even be necessary to replace the entire engine.

Well. it was apparent that there was no way we could continue on our way to Cortez, Colorado, and since there was now plenty of time we might just as wen stay where we were. and do whatever was necessary. 'The. garage owner (Red Skelton - really) and his son,Shannon. the mechanic were very affable and readily agreed that we could continue to live in our Cortez while the work was being done.

But as most of us are well aware, there is simply no way that the crankcase pan-on the; Kent models (or any Toronado or Eldorado) can be dropped without separating the engine from the rest of the drive line. Although we weren't very happy With the appearance of the shop and the, lack of equipment, we made the decision to stay, what the heck, Since we were already-there and comfortable and Shannon seemed quite enthused .and skillful, let him at least get started. To get the engine out and opened up, he gave us a written estimate for $250. After

~ that we would decide what to do next.

The work went' slowly because of the many interruptions forhis other routine work, but finally the cause of the trouble was located. It wasn 'I then engine at all; it was the

FLEX PLATE BETWEEN THE CRANKSHAFT AND THE TORQUE CONVERTER. I'd never before heard of this happening but there it was, cracked on three sides which allowed it to wobble causing Cine of the holding bolts to hit the housing - and thatwas the noise we. all had heard.

To make this story no longer, suffice it to say that the new flexplate and converter were ordered, installed and everything put back together taking just about the same time we'd planned for our trip. So we returned home as expected only older, wiser but much sadder having had 10 miss our 20th National Cortez Rally. We envy all the rest of you and know you had a fine time. .

Fred & Jean Franke '77 Cortez Sunnyvale. CA 94{l89

HERNANDO'S RIDEAWAY

Now is the time to start seriously thinking about joining US for the Third Annual Hernando's Rideaway. You don', HAVE to do anything - just be there, Dave and Lovey Munday· have taken the reins' to wagonmaster Hernando's Rideaway and the Arizona Club is making the lead weekend their October outing. It will begin at Organ Pipe National Monument, Dave and Lovey plan to be at Organ Pipe National Monument on the evening of October 14, 1993. and remain thru the weekend. (The last two years the Monument was not into its season as yet, so there was no fee.)

Following the weekend outing at Organ Pipe ·they ~il1 begin the trek to Playa de Oro RV Park in Puerto Penasco. The Mundays plan to stay at Puerto Penasco for two weeks, which will be until October 28th or through the weekend (October 31st).

Dave adds, that when we cross the border, we buy vehicle insurance for the day in and the day out. Of.course if you have a tow car, it should be insured for the entire time.

Playa de Oro is a very nice park. Their water is good for drinking and we have not had any problem withany food that we have bought. We prefer to get our fish and shrimp from the wharf where if is iced rather than from vendors.

Playa de Oro has a beautiful beach. In October the days arehot, but there is enough breeze that shade makes it nice. The water is wonderful for swimming then and usually, unless there is a storm. fairly calm .. The nights arejust right for sitting out. Town is close enough to walk, and if you are 100 tired to walk back, the taxi is $1.00 per person, (Editor's note: Fred Franke pur it niaiy in the last issue, SO we'li repeat-it allover again.)

And where is this place anyhow? One ·of the best ways to find out is to do a Iittle map reading. Tum to the page fOT Arizona in your Rand McNal ly and directly below the Mexican border you'll see the: Sea of Cortez. It may be .called the Gulf of California but scratch that out because we all KNOW it's properly named after OUT coach's progenitor,

5

the famous conquistador. Look in the general area of the upper rightcorner.nf OUR SI;:A and you'll-see Puerto Penasco. (Most of us don't really care bUI it's properly pronounced PWER'TOE PAIN YAH'SCO).

How to get there: Look. at your map some more; notice the two main interstate highways traversing the State; 1- J{) which runsbetween Blythe, CA .and Phoenix, and 1-8 from Yuma to Tucson. OK, now find the; lawn of BUCKEYE on ]-10 and you'll note state route 85 going down straight south for only 30 miles !O 1-8 and GILA BEND. Continuing: south for 40 miles, the next town is AJD (AAH'HOE), where an entire mountain was removed for its contents of copper, and which has a beautiful green shady central plaza ideal for a lunch break.

The next town is WHY. There's not much there except a store, gas station- and insurance office, but some of our people have Slopped there for one of those reasons arid found it to be OK.

In about another 25 miles is Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument and this is a favorite overnight stop with good campground facilities - no hookups, It's only five miles to the border crossing, then through the city-of Sonoita and an easy 60 miles to Puerto Penasco and the golden beaches and crystal clear wannwaters of the Sea ofCorttz.

Plan to join us for the Third Annual Hernando's Rideaway and make your reservations, here is the address: Playa de Oro RV Park,Apdo #76, Puerto Penasco, Sonora, Mexico 83550. The direct telephone number is 011-526-383-2668. When you make your reservations specify your arrival and departure dates. Send $26 per space, (that's two nights reservation) and mention that you are with the Cortez Club. Reservations should be made at least 3 weeks prior to your arrival date.

Remember that it costs $.35 to mail to Mexico.

BICYCLE RACK

We know that other Cortezzers have had the same frustrations that we have had with locating a trailer hitch or.bumper style bicycle rack. We even considered the rack outlined by Don McCall in Cortez Library Item #13.

In one last effort, we ~isited Bicycle's Etc. in EI Toro, California and found just the right one. The rack that we decided upon, and have mounted on the coach is Slider Corporation's BS-l000. It is a two-bike-rack that bolts 10 a 2-inch receiver box on a standard ball hitch tongue (sans the ball). Since this adaptation did not clear the spare tire. I had a local welding shop rut a 2 1!2 inch wide by 1/2 inch thick piece of mild steel which was drilled with a 5/8 inch hole for the tongue, and a 3/4 inch hole for the 2 inch receiver box to extend it.away fromthe hike rack,

The length of the rack sliders, for those who have slides for their trailer hitches,are

. , . continued Of! page 6

10 and 18 inches for two bikes. and 26 and 33 inches for 4 bikes. Slider sizes are 1-1/4, ]-1/2, and 2 inches.

Also available are spare tire racks for 4, S, and 6cnole lug patters. Other accessories

include 'ski sliders and slider stands. The racks are well made and can be easily adapted to any Conezzer'« needs. Ours even came with tWO keyed-alike locks, one for the slider box, one for the clamp that holds the bikes. Silder

Jul)'-Sepl~bt:r 199::L

Corporation, 1819 DahaSt., Glendale, CA &18-243-4949.

Pete Hallock/l.ucie de Jounge "74 Cortez Laguna Beach, CA 92651