RoverXchange Land Rover National Rally 2009 Leadville, Colorado
RALLYROVINGS Rally 2009 National Rally Coordinator Chris Doty Hello all, my name is Chris Doty and I am a Land Rover addict...LOL....I wanted to let everyone know who I am. This is my first year as a member of the Solihull Society. I admit that it took me a while to become a member of the club, but honestly when I did, I found that I jumped in with both feet. I mostly decided to join because of the people. I have had bad experiences in past car clubs and my first thought of joining a “Land Rover club” was honestly “everyone in the club is just going to be pompous and stuck up”… yeah, not the case. The first club member that I meet was Jeff at JC Rover. He was my first interaction with “the club” as I saw it. He was nice and humorous. Then I meet Matt with HiCountry—wow, another club member that was awesome to talk to and befriended me immediately. I was surprised when I kept meeting club members that were the same way. So I did it… I paid my dues and joined the club at the Heritage day in 2008. Since then I have taken on the job of being the National Rally Coordinator! WOW what a job. So far, I think that I have done a good job with it, and I seem to be getting good feedback towards it. This year I think will be one of the best. So I figure you want to know a bit about me. OK, here we go…I am a 27 year old that has a compassion for people and machines (vehicles only nothing strange). I am married to a wonderful woman, Mandy. I work for T-Mobile in the financial care department. I admit that I am a bit of a tech geek and I absolutely love gadgets. I also have the nickname among friends and family of Google because of my “techiness.” I currently own five project vehicles. 2001 Land Rover Disco II, 1984 Corvette, 1966 VW Bug, 1960 Mercedes 190DB, and a 1932 Ford 1Ton truck. The Disco has been my entry to having a fun (yet expensive) daily driver that I can beat the living daylights out of. It currently has several mods done to it. OME lift, HiCountry sliders, front, and rear bumpers, Smittybuilt 10k winch, home built tire swing arm, mud tires, Cobra CB radio, JC Rover CDL lever, and a few other small things. I have had my Disco for two years and have loved everything about it. It has done things that I never imagined it could do without bigger mods. Some of the trails it has been on in stock form are: Slaughterhouse Gulch, Argentine Pass, Chinaman Gulch, and Spring Creek. On all of them, it surprised other trail goers and made them gain a bit more respect for the Rover community. I do have many more mods planned for the Disco and hopefully soon. I want to thank everyone who was able to make it to the rally this year, and I hope you all enjoy the events.
RoverXchange The Rover Xchange is a quarterly publication of the Solihull Society 4-Wheel Drive Club, Inc. All material in Rover Xchange, unless otherwise noted, is the property of Solihull Society and may not be reproduced without permission.
Solihull Society Contacts President Karen Kreutzer karen.kreutzer@solihullsociety.org VP Andy Snow andy.snow@solihullsociety.org Treasurer Graham Jackson graham.jackson@solihullsociety.org Secretary/Membership Paul Donohue secretary@solihullsociety.org Trail Events Coordinator Jim Hall jim.hall@solihullsociety.org Special Events Coordinator Wendy Vaughan vaughans_5@msn.com Rally Coordinator Chris Doty chris.doty@solihullsociety.org Rally Sponsorship Coordinator Mike Pomponio mike.pomponio@solihullsociety.org Land Issues Coordinator Jim Hall jim.hall@solihullsociety.org Newsletter Tate Crumbley tate.crumbley@solihullsociety.org Website Admins David Garbs admin@solihullsociety.org Dan Russo dan@solihullsociety.org Website – www.solihullsociety.org Newsletter Articles and Photos – Articles must be submitted in either Word (.doc) or text (.txt) format. Digital photos can be emailed or mailed on CD in either a JPEG, TIFF or EPS files. The articles can be submitted either via email (tate.crumbley@solihullsociety.org) or mailed on a CD to Tate Crumbley at the following address: 2010 E 98th Ave, Thornton, CO 80229. Materials will be returned upon request. Advertising – $25/issue or $100/year for 1/4 page ads. Payment must accompany all camera-ready ads. Make check payable to Solihull Society. Free classified ads to members. $5/issue to non-members.
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A Newsletter for Land Rover Aficionados
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IN THIS ISSUE
Volume 13, Issue 2, Land Rover National Rally 2009
Rally Rovings
2
Platinum Sponsors
4
Metberry Gulch: The Saga of Buttercup
10
Leadville Rally Locations
14
Rally Trail Map
16
Rally Trails Descriptions
17
Membership Application and Renewal
20
Member Profile: Jean Excell
22
A Letter and a Cartoon
24
2010 Range Rover
26
Photos in this issue are courtesy of Jean Excell, Mike McUne, Nick DeValera, Kristy Taylor, Jeff Corwin, Eugene Higby, and Land Rover RoverXchange
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Platinum Sponsor
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A Newsletter for Land Rover Aficionados
Platinum Sponsor - Maintenance - Installations - Repairs - Custom
JC’s Rover & 4x4 2009 Land Rover National Rally - Leadville Colorado Englewood, Colorado (720) 227 - 9118 JC’s Rover & 4x4 was founded by Jeff Corwin in April of 2005. Jeff is a Land Rover Master Tech and an ASE Master Tech and, with his team of ASE certified technicians, has quickly become the premiere Land Rover repair specialist in Denver. Many thanks go to the Solihull Society for being one of the key reasons for the shop’s growth. Without referrals from club members and postings on the forum, our shop would not have grown the way it has. In fact, in July 2009, we are transitioning into our new facility at 1675 W. Hamilton Pl, Englewood, CO 80110. The new facility is a stand-alone building with about twice the usable space of our original location. A little history on Jeff Corwin: I’ve been a mechanic and technician for about 15 years now. I had started in electronics, taking one semester of electrical engineering at State University of New York Farmingdale. During that time, my vehicle problems drove my interest toward the automotive field. So I switched directions and attended an automotive trade school for 1 year, then got my A.A.S. degree from SUNY Farmingdale in Automotive Engineering.
as well as Land Rover Master Tech status. From August 2004 through March 2005, I was an instructor at Denver Automotive and Diesel College, teaching the Brake System and Manual driveline classes. In addition to basic maintenance and repairs we also offer installation services for Lift kits, Gears, Lockers, Bumpers, Winches, Off road lighting, etc. Custom fabrication is available on a limited basis (we’re very busy keeping up with all the other work). We have performed some interesting projects, including a chop top Discovery II, custom RRC LWB rock sliders, custom RR 4.0/4.6 air suspension (on Jeff’s own P38, and one other so far). JC’s Rover & 4x4 was opened for full time service in April 05. My mission is to serve all your Land Rover and 4x4 needs.
From there, I have worked at two major shops: Pep Boys for about 3.5 years, and Land Rover Denver South for 5 years. In that time, I have earned ASE Master Tech status,
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Sponsors We, Ricardo and Brenda Gonzalez, owners of Caribbean Rovers, are proud, happy and grateful to all those who, in one way or another, have enabled us to be part of this great event, the Land Rover National Rally organized by Solihull Society. As independent distributors of Land Rover parts in Puerto Ricp and the Caribbean we provide services for mechanical, maintenance, installation of accessories and parts sales. Caribbean Rovers Expeditions also offer alternatives to those adventurers who visit us in San Juan, PR. Come and enjoy with us an Off Road Great Adventure in Puerto Rico. Caribbean Rovers - Another Way of Living! www.caribbeanrovers.com 787-792-1320
Columbia Rovers was founded in 1999 out of the love for the venerable Defender 90 and it’s propensity for modification. Over the years, Columbia Rovers has evolved into a leading Land Rover service center in the NW, all the while never venturing too far from our off-road roots. To satiate our original lust, Columbia Rovers continues to prepare vehicles for off-road use and develop products for those who share our passion. All of our products are thoughtfully engineered and thoroughly tested on our own vehicles before being offered to our customers. CAD design, multiple working prototypes, and merciless testing ensure that our products are of the highest durability the day they are made available to the public. www.columbiarovers.com Four Color CMYK File Name: equipt_logo_cmyk.eps
Equipt opened for business in March of 2006, but had been in the works for much longer. One fateful August evening in 2005, I met a remarkable couple from South Africa. They were traveling from Argentina to Alaska in a Troopie they called “Tubby Explorer.” We arranged a meeting while they were passing through to visit with our local Land Cruiser Club. How was I to know that this couple would change my life. Jack and Margaret are a wonderful couple, full of life and experiences of the world. They were traveling the way most Two Color PMS186 / 100K File Name: equipt_logo_2c.eps
One Color PMS186
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of us dream of. I became aware that Jack was an integral part of Eezi Awn. Jack asked me if I knew anyone interested in representing their company in the US. Unbeknownst to them, I had been looking for a life change. After one of many sleepless nights to come, I told Jack I wanted to start a company to represent Eezi Awn. We finalized the deal with a look in the eye and a handshake. That’s how it should be done. Jack took a chance on me. I am sure glad he did. It’s been several years since our fateful start, and we are still going strong. We are a growing company, mindful of the integrity and customer service our clientele deserve. We are proud to be the leading North American importer of vehicle based expedition equipment. We now represent Eezi Awn, National Luna, and Front Runner brands. There are no better brands in the market today. When the vehicle you drive is your lifeline, you can’t afford second best. We won’t let you down. Paul May e-mail: Paul@Equipt1.com 866-703-1026 www.equipt1.com
Great Basin Rovers was started in 1992 and was the culmination of the dream of Bill Davis. He bought his first Land Rover in 1976 and started exploring the most remote areas of Utah’s back country. These experiences emphasized to him the need to develop more durable drivetrain components for this beloved marque. It also taught him the value of accessories to improve both the on and off road performance of these vehicles. In addition he developed a keen interest in vehicle based camping. This background lead him to start GBR, which today is the premier Land Rover parts company specializing in heavy duty/high performance suspension, brakes and especially drivetrain products. Differential products are our forte but we supply it all - axles, differentials, gears, driveshafts, CV joints and transfer case gearing. Many of these are own branded products developed through years of experience in design, testing and real world experience. Several years ago, we made the decision to operate a complete remanufacturing facility and can now supply complete remanufactured subassemblies such as differentials. Recently we decided to expand into supplying a complete line of vehicle based expedition, overlanding and camping equipment. We are known for expert, honest and personalized service. www.greatbasinrovers.com
A Newsletter for Land Rover Aficionados
Sponsors
HiCountry Offroad Products was created and founded by the husband and wife team, Matt and Kelley Bush. The venture started as a love for offroading and turned into a company motto: “We’re here to get you into the woods and back home, safely.” HCOP is currently based in Evergreen, Colorado in the beautiful Rocky Mountains, a short drive from Denver. We specialize in Jeep and Land Rover aftermarket accessories, with emphasis on the family oriented 4-door SUV’s. HiCountry Offroad currently designs and manufactures all of our products in house using the latest in Computer Aided Design and Analysis tools as well as CNC plasma cutters to accurately cut all of our plate products prior to being welded by our in-house welders. HiCountry Offroad Products are proudly made in the USA! hicountryoffroad.com
Land Rover Roaring Fork is located in Glenwood Springs Colorado. Nestled in a beautiful mountain valley, Glenwood Springs sits on the western slope of Colorado as a hub to Aspen (40 minutes south), Vail (45 minutes east) and Grand Junction (90 minutes west). Land Rover Roaring Fork takes advantage of this wonderful location by taking customers on multiple off-road events all over the region. Staying true to the heritage of Land Rover is very important to the dealership and residing in this region makes it very easy to showcase both the off-road capabilities and on road characteristics of the Land Rover brand. Our staff is extremely knowledgeable about both the product and the surrounding outdoors environment. So if you are ever passing through town, please feel free to stop and visit us. Our staff would be happy to help you find the right off-road trail, maybe help you to find the right place to fish on the river, or can even help you with the right bug to use to catch that trophy trout! Come visit us at 52876 Two Rivers Plaza Road, Glenwood Springs CO. Or visit us on the web at www.landroverroaringfork.com
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MIT Automotive Solutions is an independent service and repair facility specializing in Land Rover, BMW, and Mini Cooper product lines. MIT also supplies and installs off-road upgrades, and provides custom fabrication. Niched in central Evergreen, Colorado, MIT is uniquely positioned between the high country and the big city … where your adventures begin! Taking pride in its friendly customer service, expertise, and dedication to fixing the problem right, MIT backs up that service commitment with over 25 years experience and factory training. Contact info: MIT Automotive Solutions, 30735 Bryant Drive, Unit 601, Evergreen, CO. Mailing: PO Box 1592, Evergreen, CO 80437 www.mitautomotive.com
Off Roving is the next step in the ownership experience. Get the vehicle. Get the training. Get living. The first and only US driver instruction with an exclusive emp hasis on the 2005+ Land Rover model line-up, Off Roving has lead the market in bringing new off road opportunities and lifestyle experiences to this segment. From training to off road adventures like the annual Off Roving the Great Divide now in its fourth sell-out year to introducing the world’s first production-spec rock sliders for LR3 and Range Rover Sport; the owners of these new models have a place to go for products and services exclusive to them. Off Roving is donating an Adventure Model roof top tent in exclusive orange and black G4 trim. www.offroving.com
Overland Journal is dedicated to expedition travel and exploration in North America and around the world. Featuring over 130 pages of expedition vehicles, travel stories, equipment reviews, and conservation news, Overland Journal sets new standards in adventure travel journalism. Our international editorial staff collects the most captivating and informative www.SolihullSociety.org 7
Sponsors stories ever seen in a vehicle-centered publication. -Overland Journal is delivered perfect bound and in full color for archival quality. -Each year features a Spring, Summer, Fall, Winter, and Annual Gear Guide. Designed for readers who want in-depth information rather than sound bites, Overland Journal is content rich, with 10-plus page feature adventures and no story breaks. Skills and technical features offer a level of detail designed to produce competent and self-confident backcountry travelers. www.overlandjournal.com
Pikes Peak Rovers is located in Colorado Springs and has been in business since 2002. Full service Land Rover repair shop offering scheduled maintenance, minor/ major repair, off road outfitting, custom fabrication, full restoration etc. Pikes Peak Rovers has sponsored the Ralley five of the last six years. PPR is also known for its off road racing team which finished 17th at the 2008 King of the Hammers desert race and 11th in 2009. www.pikespeakrovers.com
Land Rovers. The ROVERDRIVE overdrives can be fitted to both Series and Defender models. Fitting a ROVERDRIVE to a Land Rover gives an optional top gear 28% higher than normal. The unit is engaged by means of a simple lever. When used on the highway, engine revolutions are reduced. The Land Rover becomes much quieter to drive and there are significant savings in fuel. The ROVERDRIVE can be used in any gear giving useful splitter ratios in both high and low range. The units have no complicated electronic components and share oil with the transfer case. ROVERDRIVE GEAR CORPORATION runs its own Series and 110 vehicles on expedition service evaluating performance. The company will be represented at the National Rally by Robyn Wenner and Ray Wood, who have just completed a series of safaris in South and Central Africa using their own 110 Land Rover. www.roverdrives.com
RockStar Fab - Banner File built 1/2 size @ 35”x15” +.5” Bleed Final Printed Size = 70”x30” +1” Bleed
RSW Solutions is a small but dedicated and hard working private company. We develop, manufacturer and sell vehicle diagnostic tools specific to Land Rover Vehicles. We currently have two primary products. The first diagnostic tool is designed to communicate with the Discovery II Anti-Lock Braking System and help diagnose the very common “Three Amigos” affliction. The second product is designed to communicate with the P38a Range Rover Electronic Air Suspension and help eliminate the dreaded “EAS Fault”. The goal of these products is to enable the Land Rover owner with as much information as possible towards to purpose of vehicle repair and vehicle operation. www.rswsolutions.com
I grew up in a family fabrication business and have always been blessed/cursed with, “I can do that” syndrome. 30 years ago, when I started building my Kawasaki 900 into a drag bike, the thought of dropping hundreds of dollars on other people’s work was out of the question. That started me building race parts, first for myself and then for friends. Later, I switched to cars and then, finally to four wheeling: rock crawling, in particular. After fabricating parts for several Jeep buildups for myself and others I bought a D1. I was impressed with the stock capabilities and decided to do a little work on it. The Land Rover marketplace showed a lot of nice products but no one was building the tube-based parts I’d always loved. It was time to make my dream a reality. Discussions with my wife lead to the creation of RockStar Fabrication. We currently build tube bumpers, sliders, and accessories for D1, D2, and RRC. We’ve also developed a York based onboard air system for D1 and are planning a line of sliders and roof racks. Our target audience is the slightly more hardcore offroader: someone who thinks a Rover is a great starting point. At RockStar, function will always take precedence over form, but the goal is to make the two come together. RockStar Fabrication is located in Indiana, just outside of Chicago. Brad Nyenhuis. www.roxtarfab.com
ROVERDRIVE GEAR CORPORATION is a Canadian company that specializes in the manufacture of overdrives for 8 RoverXchange A Newsletter for Land Rover Aficionados
Sponsors Academia. Craig holds an MS in Spatial Information Science and Engineering from the University of Maine National Center for Geographic Information Analysis (NCGIA). spatialminds.com Shadow River Productions is a veteran owned, Colorado based custom firearms manufacturer. Established in July 2007, SRP specializes in building custom AR, AK, and FAL type rifles. We also refinish firearms using either parkerizing and/ or DuraCoat Firearm Finishes. SRP holds a current Type-07 (manufacturer) Federal Firearms License (FFL) and a valid Special Occupation Tax (SOT). That means that we are able to manufacturer, buy, sell, and transfer firearms, ammunition, and all items controlled under the National Firearms Act (NFA) to include machineguns and sound suppressors. Contact us about building your next Service Rifle AR or Heavy Metal FAL. Owner@ShadowRiverProductions.com See our store for more details: www.EvilBlackRifleShop.com
Spatial Minds, LLC makes Overland Navigator. Overland Navigator is touch screen and netbook friendly Topographic GPS Mapping Software for Windows. It mosaics detailed USGS Topographic quads and displays them as single seamless map. If you have a GPS plugged in to your computer it will show your current location, position the map at your location, record a track log of where you went, and enable you to mark any points of interest you observe. You don’t have to fold it, you don’t have to worry about drawing on it, you don’t have to worry about whether or not you have the right map with you, and you don’t have to figure out which map you should be looking at (the GPS positions it for you). GPS mapping simple and easy. Spatial Minds was founded by Craig Miller in 2004 as a mapping software development company. With over 17 years of experience designing, developing, implementing, and managing wired and wireless enterprise geo-spatial solutions Craig has both breadth and depth of experience. His work experience includes working as a GIS Manager, Researcher, and Software Engineer for Local & Federal Land Management Agencies, the Department of Defense, Private Business, and
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If the great Henry Morton Stanley had been exploring the famed uncharted territories of Africa in modern times, he would accept nothing less than a Land Rover prepared by RoverTym. Like the finest Gin on the hottest of days or a lever action Marlin in a big game hunt, RTE leaves nothing to be desired in the form or function of the products they produce. Whether you’re an able bodied explorer pushing your Land Rover to its maximum or you’re competing in a modern day rock race that looks like someone combined AMA Supercross with Rock Crawling, RTE has your number. One. As in the “one” choice for all your off-pavement needs when it comes to equipping your Land Rover with the finest gear available. Countless hours of R&D go into producing the legendary armor and suspension systems that bear the famed Armadillo logo. As a Land Rover owner, you need to be confident in the products you choose. RTE has been there since the beginning producing products for owners like you who continually ask for more of themselves and their vehicles. Owners that exemplify Land Rover ownership by continuing to go beyond, crossing borders and pushing boundaries farther and farther. It’s owners like you that RTE strives to please while fabricating through the night into the following day’s warm light. Sleep? When producing products this nice you give up things like sleep, relationships and normal breathing habits. Anyone can build a bumper but only RTE can craft one. www.rovertym.com
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Metberry Gulch: The Saga of Buttercup by Kristy Taylor Five trucks then departed Sedalia and headed south to the burn area near Westcreek. The group included Thom and Marian Robinson and son Nathan in their ’96 Disco, Michael Calkins and son Aidan in their ’96 Disco, Justin Sandifer and son Brynn in their ’99 Range Rover, Eric Meyer and Cathryn Stewart in their ’95 Defender 90, and Nick and me in our ’96 Defender 90. Finding Metberry Gulch’s trailhead proved to take up most of our day, but luckily for us, the confusing labyrinth of Forest Service roads were just as scenic as the trail itself. After consulting our slew of GPS’s and coming to endless screeching halts at dead ends and private roads, we stopped to ask a tiny lady piloting a one ton farm truck for directions. After backtracking only a few miles, we found the giant wooden sign we had just blown by was now helpfully pointing the way. According to a variety of sources, Metberry Gulch is rated anywhere from an easy stroll to a difficult trail, the confusion understandable as this trail has only recently been reopened after being consumed in a forest fire. Back in 2002, Colorado’s Hayman Fire became the largest forest fire in the state’s history on its very first day. During the next month, it spread out over 137,000 acres, destroying over 100 homes and briefly threatening the Denver metropolitan area. This whole mess started when a heartbroken Forest Ranger went into the woods to burn a letter penned by her estranged husband, apparently forgetting it was her job to enforce the fire ban during 2002’s extreme drought conditions.
In no time at all, we found Metberry Gulch’s trailhead and drove in. After playing in a small mud puddle near the entrance, we fell in line and continued on, excited to see how the forest has been coping since the fire.
Therefore, the six Land Rovers that met bright and early in Sedalia for a bit of exploring had no idea what the day might bring. My day, however, came to a crashing halt when my Defender 90’s diff blew apart rather unspectacularly in front of the donut shop. Since I was backing up a steep hill to park when it happened, Buttercup (my D90) and I briefly flew down Main Street without any gears before coming to a rest, only to resume the downhill jaunt when the e-brake failed as well. Solihull members came running from all directions with large rocks plucked from the gas station to bring Buttercup’s mad dash to freedom under control. Thom Robinson came running with the top portion of his stock bottle jack, surprising us all by identifying this formerly useless piece of metal as a tire chock. This meant (the horror!) leaving Buttercup behind to become a passenger in my husband’s Defender 90. At least I would have the illusion of driving since Nick’s Defender is right-hand drive.
Trail builders have taken many steps to protect against the erosion that is common when fires clear out the underbrush and tree roots are lost. The ground in the area is mostly loose gravel, and as rocks are few and far between, the trail is in real danger of slipping down the mountainside. To combat this, wooden steps have been planted on the hilly parts, and silt fences have been installed in the gullies running close to the road. Drivers must navigate more small gravel moguls and washouts than rocks on this trail.
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Through the towering sticks of blackened pine trees and glassy Aspen trunks, we were happy to find that the forest is well on its way to recovering. A solid carpet of neon colored wildflowers dotted the hillsides and clumps of new Aspens reaching nearly fifteen feet high grew along the stream banks. The steady chorus of songbirds and glimpses of deer announced that the wildlife had indeed returned.
The second obstacle of the day was an off camber section on a curve that fortunately tilts you away from the sheer edge, but unfortunately threatens your side mirrors and doors with a giant boulder. Slow and careful driving saw everyone through. After a loose yet slabby descent, the riverbank flattened out to provide plenty of parking in a low-lying area we used for lunch. We watched fly fishermen cast their lines in the river below as
A Newsletter for Land Rover Aficionados
the three young boys of our group grabbed their plastic guns and raced among us in an intense battle involving lots of mud. Imagine their surprise when the group of 4x4’s right next to us started shooting off real guns. Kids and dogs scattered as our neighbors fired shots just over the heads of fishermen only a few hundred feet away. Thankfully, the riff-raff soon packed up and left us in peace. A quick peek at Nick’s radar indicated one massive storm to our east that was filled with tornadoes, and another one was rapidly growing in the west. So far, we had enjoyed a peaceful, dry, and cool day, but with the threat of a downpour growing, we decided we should get a move on and conquer the steep, loose uphills while they were still dry. With a steady pressure on the gas, we made it up the steep portion with only a few tire spins, the last of our group’s rear tires just clearing the hill as it started to sprinkle. Unbeknownst to the women, the men had decided to try and take a completely different path home. Apparently undeterred by the morning’s aimless wanderings, we set out in the opposite direction of home. For the next few hours, the Forest Service roads wound all around themselves, changing names along the county lines we dipped in and out of numerous times. Every half mile or so as we would come to an intersection, the airwaves would fill with, “My GPS says go left.” “Mine says go right.” “Well, mine says to go straight across that river!” Eventually, we found a rock shaped like a dinosaur egg that we all recognized, and we all pointed our trucks towards Westcreek. After a quick ice cream on this chilly day in Deckers, we aired up and headed home. Nick and I headed back to Sedalia to pick up Buttercup, hoping she hadn’t jumped the tire chock and taken out a storefront. We had decided earlier that Buttercup would make a valiant attempt to limp home along Hwy 85. At a top speed of 40 mph, I made it to the outskirts of Littleton before Buttercup locked up and skidded off to the side of the road. A rather wide-eyed sheriff witnessed the dramatic sliding stop and bounded up to my window. As it was her first day on the job, she was at a slight loss as to what to do, but her partner pointed out that since I was technically blocking a lane of traffic (half a tire sat in a turn lane), she had the power to call in a super speedy tow truck. Within fifteen minutes, a shiny red tow truck pulled up and yanked Buttercup onto its deck. Blasting away from the police in a shower of gravel, he headed for JC’s Rover at 20 mph over the limit. As Nick and I peddled to keep up in the Defender, we noticed smoke pouring out of the tow truck, but we were no match for the big diesel and had no way to warn him. We could only watch him fade into the horizon, undeterred by the cloud of pesky smoke now enveloping the entire tow truck. Eventually, we found the shiny red tow truck halted just 300 feet from JC’s Rover. “My truck died!” The RoverXchange
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driver commented as the tow truck threw up an oil slick the size of Texas. Two more tow trucks were dispatched: one to escort Buttercup the final 300 feet and one for the shiny red tow truck itself. We hunkered down with the driver to await our rescue, betting on the driving capabilities of the drivers in oncoming cars as they skated across the oil slick. Thankfully, within an hour both of our rescuers came snorting in. The second flat bed raced up to Buttercup with the grand plan of winching her straight onto his truck. The only problem was that Buttercup was tethered down with an array of chains, all held taunt by the original tow truck’s hydraulic winch. With the shiny red tow truck depleted of its oil, all hopes of firing up the engine to free the winch were dashed. “She ain’t going nowhere,” both men said in unison. Jumping up on the deck, I boldly announced, “Like heck she isn’t! I’m getting my winch controller-thingy out.” It was near dark, and I was verging on tears or laughter; I couldn’t decide which was more appropriate. Hooking the winch cable to the deck, we winched old Buttercup down until her tires disappeared in the wheel wells, enough to get the tow trucks winch free and Buttercup unshackled. The rescue truck then towed her the last 300 feet. It took only a minute to launch her into a parking spot at Jeff ’s, build a moat of rocks around her tires, and bid her farewell. On the way home, I reminded my husband that our second anniversary was right around the corner, and while diamonds are nice and sparkly, bestowing Buttercup with a rear locker would make me the happiest wife ever. I’m keeping my fingers crossed.
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Sponsors
Denver South
Flatirons Superior, Colorado
Flatirons Superior, Colorado
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Sponsors
KENDELL ELECTRIC Inc SERVICE RESIDENTIAL COMMERCIAL NEW CONSTRUCTION
You Know Your Rover. I Know Your Real Estate.
Tom Cryer Broker Associate The Kentwood Co. 303-773-3399 303-638-3202 tcryer@kentwoodco.com www.MyTownCryer.com RoverXchange
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Leadville Rally Locations
Leadville Rally 0 views - Unlisted Created on Jul 15 - Updated < 1 minute ago By Tate Rate this map - Write a comment
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A Newsletter for Land Rover Aficionados
Leadville Rally Locations Silver King Inn & Suites
US Post Office
Silver King Inn & Suites 29 reviews 2020 N Poplar St Leadville, CO 80461 (719) 486-2610 silverkinginn.com
US Post Office 130 W 5th St Leadville, CO 80461-3510 usps.com We Love Leadville Sign
Leadville RV Corral Leadville RV Corral 135 W 2nd St Leadville, CO 80461-3617 (719) 486-3111 mountainrvpark.com
Ice Palace Park
Lake County Visitor Center
Alco Stores
Lake County Visitor Center 710 Harrison Ave Leadville, CO 80461-3562 (719) 486-1239 lakecountyvisitorcenter.com
Alco Stores 401 US Highway 24 Leadville, CO 80461-3974 (719) 486-9339 alcostores.com
St Vincent Hospital
Napa Auto Parts
St Vincent Hospital 2 reviews 822 W 4th St Leadville, CO 80461-3897 (719) 486-0230 svghd.org
Napa Auto Parts 1401 Poplar St Leadville, CO 80461-3055 (719) 486-1375 carquest.com
Ice Palace Park
Safeway Police Headquarters Safeway 1900 US Highway 24 Leadville, CO 80461 (719) 486-0795 safeway.com
Police Headquarters 800 Harrison Ave # 204 Leadville, CO 80461-3564 (719) 486-1365 usacops.com Heritage Museum Heritage Museum 102 E 9th St Leadville, CO 80461-3302 (719) 486-1878
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www.SolihullSociety.org 15
Radical Hill
Red Cone
Red Cliff Copper Mountain
McAllister Gulch
Middle Fork Swan
Breckenridge
Ptarmigan Pass
Pando
Holy Cross City
Holy Cross
Jefferson
Chalk Creek Climax
Slide Lake
Wheeler Lake Lily Lake
Mt. Zion
Buckeye Gulch No Name
Como
Birdseye Gulch
Alma Mosquito Pass
Leadville
Malta
Fairplay
Browns Pass Halfmoon Creek
Breakneck Pass Weston Pass
Iron Mike Mine
Granite Hartsel
Vicksburg
Winfield
Antero Junction Sevenmile
Lenhardy Cutoff
2009 National Land Rover Rally Trump LEADVILLE, COLORADO
Buena Vista
2009 Leadville Rally Trails Chinaman Gulch
Johnson Village
Carnage Canyon
Halfmoon Creek / Iron Mike Mine Holy Cross Iron Chest Futurity Lilly Lake / Slide Lake McAllister Gulch / Ptarmigan Pass
Nathrop
Tincup Pass
Saint Elmo
Mosquito Pass Mount Antero / Baldwin Lake No Name / Mt. Zion Pomeroy Lake / Mount Princeton
Iron Chest Cumberland Pass
Mount Antero
Grizzly Lake
Red Cone / Radical Hill / Middle Fork Swan Sevenmile / Lenhardy Cutoff
Baldwin Lake Alpine Tunnel
Tincup / Cumberland / Alpine Tunnel / Hancock Pass Whitehorn Weston / Browns / Breakneck Passes
Pomeroy Lake Hancock Pass
Pitkin
Buckeye Gulch / Chalk Creek Carnage Canyon Chinaman Gulch Grizzly Lake
Tincup Mt. Princeton
Birdseye Gulch
0
2
4
8
12
Miles 16
Wheeler Lake
Map by Ralph Bradt 16
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A Newsletter for Land Rover Aficionados
2009 Rally Trails Disclaimer: Trail information is subject to change. Not all trails will be run on all days. Check with the trail leader to confirm description and rating.
Birdseye Gulch
Grizzly Lake
Difficulty: 6 Length, One-way: 4.4 miles Highest Point: 12,200 feet
The trail consists of rock fields, hills, tight brush, mud, and creek crossings. The primary obstacle is a large mud hole near timberline. The trail is very scenic and offers great views of Mosquito Peak, Mosquito Pass, and the Mosquito Range. Allow 6-8 hours depending on the difficulty at the mud section. This trail is suitable for semi modified to fully modified trucks. Vehicles should have good recovery points and recovery gear on this trail.
Brown’s Pass/Breakneck Pass
Difficulty: 3/4 Trail Length: 13.18 miles Highest Point: 11,427 feet These are moderate trails, suitable for stock vehicles. These trails run through the pine and aspen, climbing up and down moderate hills, and passing an old mine or two. There are some decent views from them as well. There is a possibility of pinstriping from brush in a few places.
Buckeye Gulch and Chalk Creek Difficulty: 4 Length, One-way: 4 miles Highest Point: 12,000 feet
Buckeye Gulch travels along two different creek drainages, which include meadows with wildflowers and great views of the Mosquito Range to the south. Chalk Mountain traverses varied terrain including forest, meadows and alpine tundra. From the top of Chalk Mountain, which sits on the Continental Divide, there are impressive views of the operations at the Climax molybdenum mine, as well as the surrounding mountain ranges. You can also check out the observatory ruins. On the way back down, a side trip runs along a ditch diverting water to the mine, and has more awesome scenery.
Carnage
Difficuty: 10 Trail Length: 0.88 miles This trail has large and very large boulders and ledges the whole way up. It also has a very deep V that takes its toll on bodywork as most go through it on their side. The exit is a very steep rocky hill with BIG ledges, and many have to winch out. This is a buggy only trail. Front and rear lockers required, as is rock protection, winch, 38”+ tires.
Chinaman Gulch Difficulty: 4 to 7, depending on line Trail Length: 6.9 miles Highest Point: 8,904 feet
Chinaman Gulch is one trail that is not short on obstacles. It is an out and back trail, with a loop on the end. The trail itself is rocky, and it has several harder obstacles as well. All but one of these obstacles can be bypassed, and that one takes
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the correct line, traction, clearance and very good driving skills. Body damage is possible on this trail, as is rolling, although rolling isn’t common. 32” or larger tires are needed; rock protection and a locker or 2 are highly recommended. At the beginning and end of the trail, you get good views of the mountains across the valley: Mt White, Mt Antero, and Mt Princeton.
Rally 2009
Difficulty: 6 Length, One-way: 2.8 miles Highest Point: 11,200 feet
Bring the camera. The trail is 2.8 miles from the trailhead to the lake. Allow 2 hours each way. The hardest part of the trail is at beginning of the trail with some rock obstacles and creek crossings. The rest of the trail is easier and climbs Grizzly Gulch to the lake, which lies just below timberline.
Hagerman Pass Difficulty: 3 Length, One-way: 17.8 miles Highest Point: 11,950 feet
Hagerman Pass trail starts out on the south side of Turquoise Lake (elevation 9885 ft). The trail follows the old Colorado Midland Railroad grade to the sealed entrance of the Carlton Tunnel. Opened in 1893, and originally called the BuskIvanhoe Tunnel, it is 9,394 ft long at an elevation of 10,953 ft, and was constructed by the Busk Tunnel Railway Co. It gave the railroad a lower, more direct route than the circuitous 1887 route up through the 2,060 ft long Hagerman Tunnel 500 ft higher. The Carlton Tunnel was opened to auto traffic in 1922, but closed again in 1943. Another mile up the road, the old railroad grade leaves the road on its way to the Hagerman Tunnel. At this point the road starts to climb steeper to Hagerman Pass (elevation 11,975 ft). The trail here crosses the Continental Divide separating the Atlantic and Pacific Ocean drainages. Heading down the back side of the Pass there will be view of Ivanhoe Lake and Lilly Pad Lake. Further down the hill the trail will cross Lyle Creek, a wide but not too deep water crossing. At this point, depending on time available, take FDR 527 to Ivanhoe Lake (1.7 miles) and Lily Pad Lake (6.25 miles) following old railway grades. This trail is suitable for stock Land Rovers. It is rocky in places and undercarriage scrapes are possible if not paying attention to the trail. There are some tight areas where willows could possibly leave some paint scrapes (trail pinstripes).
Halfmoon Creek and Iron Mike Mine Difficulty: 4 Length, One-way: 9 miles Highest Point: 12,800 feet
Located southwest of Leadville, these trails start out in the open Arkansas Valley but soon wind up into the forest. After several miles passing by campsites and trailheads, the trail starts to climb more steeply, and things get interesting. From the starting point, Halfmoon stays right at the fork and soon crosses the creek. It continues climbing and opens up into a beautiful meadow where there is a long and very fun creek crossing. Above this, it wanders up to near treeline and dead ends. From the end of the trail there is an awesome view of an ore house at a mine site. Returning to the fork, the Iron Mike Mine trail follows South Halfmoon Creek, and crosses shortly thereafter. There is another creek crossing further up, which has a challenging climb out. From there it climbs almost endlessly until finally dead ending at the Iron Mike Mine site. The view of the valley below and surrounding peaks, including 14,433 ft Mount Elbert (Colorado’s highest peak, which forms the east side of the South Halfmoon valley) is spectacular.
www.SolihullSociety.org 17
2009 Rally Trails Holy Cross Trail Difficulty: 8 Length, One-way: 11.5 miles Highest Point: 11,840 feet
This is one of the truly classic Colorado 4WD roads, running up to the old town of Holy Cross City. It is also a very serious undertaking, requiring lifts, lockers, and lots of skill.
Iron Chest Mine Difficulty: 7 Length, One-way: 3 miles Highest Point: 12,000 feet
This is a classic hard-core trail and known for its boulder field right at the start and continuing for half of a mile. The trail is 3 miles long each way. Rock sliders, larger tires, lockers are recommended for this trail. Allow 3-5 hours each way. The trail climbs to above timberline and has great views from up top.
Difficulty: 4/3 Trail Length: 12.11 miles Highest Point: 14,172 feet
The road to Kite Lake is a rough dirt road that goes past several historic mining sites. Though its condition varies, it is passable by any stock Rover and sometimes passenger cars. Mt Bross has a fairly easy trail that goes past many old mines which are on private property. It isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t a hard trail, but it may have some narrow sections due to the road washing out. Do not stop at any mines or look around shafts as in some areas, tunnels are just a few feet under the surface and could easily collapse either under your feet, or on your head. Mt Bross offers excellent views of the other mountains and the valleys below.
Lily Lake/Slide Lake Difficulty: 2/3 Trail Length: 2.8 miles
Difficulty: 5 Length, One-way: 6.7 miles Highest Point: 13,800 feet
Mount Princeton Difficulty: 3 Length, One-way: 6.3 miles Highest Point: 12,150 feet
This is a beautiful road winding up the face of Mount Princeton overlooking the Arkansas Valley. The road can be seen easily from the valley floor. The end of the road is on a shoulder of Mt Princeton at just above timberline. Views are spectacular, and a short walk past the end of the road takes you to a chalet open to the public.
No Name Gulch/Mt. Zion
(adapted from traildamage.com) The scenery on this trail canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t be beat, and it features a 10th Mountain Hut that is one of the few you can drive to. The early trail weaves through the trees as it climbs. The trail most often has embedded rocks in it, and sometimes it is muddy. It continues nearly straight in a northwest direction. Slide Lake is large and surrounded by mountains that form part of the Continental Divide. Homestake Peak is the large mountain to the left (west) of the lake at 13,209 feet. This is the edge of the San Isabel National Forest. There are many scenic and convenient lunch spots along this route. When you have taken in all the scenery the trail has to offer, return out the way you came in.
Mosquito Pass
Difficulty: 3 / 4 Length, One-way: 6.2 miles Highest Point: 12,160 feet
This trail starts with a fun and moderate climb up No Name Gulch. It then intersects the upper part of the Mt. Zion trail that includes a steep climb and a rolling section through the alpine tundra above treeline. The trail dead-ends at a cliff overlooking Buckeye Lake. The upper section has spectacular views of all the mountain ranges surrounding Leadville. On the way down the lower section of the Mt. Zion trail there are great views of Leadville and the Collegiate Range.
Pomeroy Lake Difficulty: 5 Length, One-way: 2.6 miles Highest Point: 12,090 feet
Difficulty: 4 Length, One-way: 16 miles Highest Point: 13,200 feet
Mosquito Pass, said to be the highest pass in Colorado, is a great tour from Leadville to Alma. It is negotiable in any Land Rover. It was built in 1879 as a part of the toll road from Denver to the Leadville mining
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Mount Antero This trail takes you to within a half mile of the summit of 14,269 ft Mount Antero. The area is also known for its finds of aquamarine. This trail can be completed by a stock vehicle that has low range. However, vehicles with low profile road tires or air dams are very likely to have difficulty.
Kite Lake/Mt Bross
18
district. The grades were steep and only light freight and express were hauled over the road in addition to some passenger traffic. It was called the fast freight route. The fare from Fairplay to Leadville was six dollars. This was used only about two years before the railroad reached Leadville. All regular traffic ceased after that time. The road was only open during the summer months for obvious reasons, although Father John Dyer skied it in the winter carrying the mail. During the winter, traffic had to go south through Buena Vista via the Lenhardy Cutoff and Trout Creek Pass. The road winds up between the remains of abandoned mines, then back down the east side, passing the ruins of the North London Mine on the north side of London Hill. The largest producer in the area, the London was rich enough to justify the construction of a branch of the D.S.P.& P. railroad. London Hill is honeycombed with tunnels running all the way through to the South London Mine. Burro racing originated on Mosquito Pass, with races over the pass between Leadville and Fairplay, annually alternating start and finish. Now each town has its own race to the top and back.
This trail can be completed by a stock vehicle that has low range. However, vehicles with low profile road tires or air dams are likely to have difficulty. The road grows increasingly difficult as it climbs toward the lake. Time permitting, the return trip can include the .6 mile side trip up to the Mary Murphy Mine, one of the most
A Newsletter for Land Rover Aficionados
2009 Rally Trails productive mines in the area in the late 1800s. The Mary Murphy Mine was started in the 1870s. It was named by one of the prospectors for a famous Denver nurse. The mine was the most prosperous in the area, supporting Hancock, Romley, and St Elmo. It is estimated that the mine produced 60 million dollars by the time it closed down in 1926. At 2.1 miles you will leave the timber for open tundra. There is a steep, loose rock climb and then at 2.6 miles you come to the parking area at the lake.
Ptarmigan Pass / McAllister Gulch Difficulty: 4 / 3 Length, One-way: 11.5 miles (Ptarmigan) 11.7 miles (McAllister) Highest Point: 11,905 feet
These are not to be missed! Both roads wind through alpine meadows with spectacular views. From Camp Hale, Ptarmigan Pass climbs to the divide between Resolution and Wearyman Creek, then drops down Wearyman through mixed forest and meadows. The McAllister Gulch trail climbs its namesake from Camp Hale to timberline near Resolution Mountain. A short side trail takes you to Resolution’s summit and great views in all directions of the Sawatch, Gore, Tenmile, and Mosquito Ranges. Below and northeast of the summit is the Fowler-Hilliard Hut, one of the backcountry huts of the 10th Mountain system. The trail rides the open top of Hornsilver Mountain for a couple miles with views that won’t quit, before dropping down the north side to Wearyman Creek.
Sevenmile / Lenhardy Cutoff Difficulty: 2 / 3 Length, One-way:24 miles Highest Point: 9,800 feet
This fun loop trail climbs up and out the dry washes and Piñon/Juniper country on the east side of the valley into Ponderosa forests and over a low divide into Chub Park, then returns. To the north are the Buffalo Peaks in the Buffalo Peaks Wilderness. The Lenhardy cutoff follows an early freight route from Colorado Springs into the Arkansas Valley. The upper half of the Sevenmile road follows an underground conduit carrying water from the Arkansas Valley over into the headwaters of the South Platte River. Views of the west side of the Arkansas Valley and the Sawatch Range/Collegiate peaks are spectacular. On the return trip, follow Chaffee County 371 north on the roadbed of the abandoned Colorado Midland Railroad along the Arkansas River before turning back west across the river to US 24.
Weston Pass
Difficulty: 2 Length, One-way: 26.5 miles Highest Point: 11,950 feet This trail runs over the top of the Mosquito Range. Along much of its length it parallels the north edge of the Buffalo Peaks Wilderness. It is negotiable in any stock Land Rover. Originally, the road over Weston Pass was a toll road from Colorado City (Colorado Springs) through South Park, over Weston Pass and into Leadville. A charge of $1.50 per team and wagon was charged use of this road. Stagecoaches of the Concord type were used for passengers. Ore and bullion were freighted east
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while most of the supplies came from Colorado City. The road was used extensively before the railroad reached Leadville. This road was built in 1861 and later rebuilt in 1878.
Tincup Pass
Difficulty: 3 Trail Length: 12.3 miles Highest Point: 12,192 feet (adapted from traildamage.com) Connecting the tiny towns of Tincup and St. Elmo, this is a great way to get from Chaffee County to Gunnison County and back. It’s not a particularly rocky or difficult road, though it will give some stock SUVs a fun challenge. If you start from the Tincup side you will pass by Mirror Lake. Stop here if you have time. Once you cross the creek and start heading uphill you can either stay on the easier trail by going right at the intersection or turn left to take “Old Tincup” instead, which is more difficult. There are a few rocks you can either choose to avoid or aim for, depending on how hard you want to make this trail. An optional rocky section close to the pass can provide some additional challenges. The top of the pass is beautiful and offers some hiking. Stay on the trail and do not travel on the illegal routes made by people in the past. This is a nice trail for every offroad vehicle.
Wheeler Lake Difficulty: 7 Trail Length: 3.13 miles Highest Point: 12,200 feet
This is a moderate trail with several obstacles and a long climb up a boulder covered hill. Wheeler Lake is the end point of this out and back trail, and the scenery is beautiful. Most of the obstacles have several routes, some easier than others. Rock protection is very helpful, and 32” or larger tires highly recommended.
Red Cone/Radical Hill/Middle Fork of the Swan Difficulty: 9 /5/ 4 Trail Length, One Way: 6.2 miles (Red Cone) 11.1 miles (Radical Hill) 18.8 miles (Swan) Highest Point: 12,821 feet
While not extremely hard, Red Cone has a reputation from past accidents. The trail, while challenging, can be run by experienced drivers in fairly stock vehicles. It is one of the further away trails, but is a classic Colorado trail. Larger tires and rock protection will help in a few places. The trail goes up through the trees, across alpine meadows, and follows a ridgeline up to the top of the mountain. From there, a steep descent follows, with drop offs on either side of the loose trail. Red Cone trail ends where it meets Webster Pass trail. From there, Webster Pass trail is followed down into the valley where it meets up with Radical Hill. This is a short, steeper trail with some off camber areas, which goes to the top of a flat hill. Mountain goats are usually visible somewhere on this trail. The trail then connects to several other trails, The Middle Fork of the Swan being one of them. This trail goes down hill, back into the trees, and comes out in the town of Breckenridge.
www.SolihullSociety.org 19
MembershipInformation
Application for Membership/Renewal Please print all information clearly. Name:_________________________________________________________Email:____________________________________________________ Address: ________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ City:______________________________________________________State_____________________________Zip:_________________________ Home Phone:_______________________________________________Cell Phone:____________________________________________________ Occupation:______________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Present Land Rovers:______________________________________________________________________________________________________ Past Land Rovers: ________________________________________________________________________________________________________ May we share the above information with other club members? Type of Application: New member Renewal
Yes
No
Type of Membership: Single (S) -- $40.00 Family (F) -- $50.00 Out of state (O) -- $30.00
Waiver: I/We, in consideration of my/our participation in the Solihull Society Land Rover Club, [hereafter referred to as club] do hereby release Solihull Society, its members, officers, sponsors, successors and assigns from any and all responsibility or liability for any and all claims, arising from or related to the activities and my/our participation in and all events sponsored and/or involving the club. I/We understand and acknowledge off-highway driving is a hazardous activity with inherent dangers, which can result in severe property damage, serious bodily injury and/or death. With full knowledge of such risks, hazards and potential for damage, injury or death, I/We voluntarily and knowingly assume such risks and hazards and agree, that the club, its members, officers, sponsors, successors and assigns shall not be liable in any way, to me/ us for any claims for damages, injuries or death resulting from my/our participation in the clubâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s events. I/We acknowledge my/our vehicle is in good mechanical condition, and said vehicle is insured for bodily injury liability insurance and personal injury protection insurance and/or medical payment coverage, as required by itsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; state of registration. I/We are advised to consult with our insurance broker/agent about availability of and adequacy of present medical payment coverage should I/We and/ or our passengers sustain bodily injury, while operating my/our motor vehicle. I/We further acknowledge the driver/operator of the vehicle is licensed to operate a motor vehicle and the license is not under suspension. This waiver/release of liability is binding on our heirs, insurers, personal representatives or assignees.
Signature______________________________________________________________Date______________________________________________ Club Use Only: Cash Check # Quicken Deposit slip
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Email to member Roster Member card # Welcome packet
A Newsletter for Land Rover Aficionados
DealershipDISCOUNTS
Our members receive exclusive discounts at Denver area Land Rover dealerships
The Colorado Denver East Dealership offers:
15%
DISCOUNT ON PARTS & LABOR Includes courtesy vehicle. Will install customer parts. Contact dealer for details.
The Colorado Flatirons Dealership offers: Flatirons
15%
DISCOUNT ON PARTS & LABOR
Superior, Colorado
The Colorado Springs Dealership offers:
15%
DISCOUNT ON PARTS & LABOR
JCâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Rover offers:
10%
DISCOUNT ON LABOR Parts typically 10%-20% cheaper than list
Green Diamond Tires offers:
10%
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OFF TIRE ORDERS
Rally 2009
www.SolihullSociety.org 21
Member Profile: Jean Excell Editor’s Note: Jean submitted this issue’s cover shot. Thanks go to all those members who submitted photos. We got into Rovers in 2000 when we first purchased the 1997 Discovery XD from Land Rover Las Vegas. We joined the Land Rover Club of Las Vegas in 2000 and became the Trail Leaders that Fall. In 2001, Perry & I became the co-Presidents of the Club, and held this position through 2003. We were part of the founding crew that started the Rover Rendezvous to Big Bear, CA, a three-way club event with the Southern Cal Land Rover Club and the San Diego Club. The name of the event has now changed to Rover Trek, but is now in it’s 9th year. In 2002 we acquired a 1992 Range Rover Classic as well so we didn’t have to fight over who was going to drive! 2003 was the first year we met up with the Solihull Society for the National Rally in Moab and were impressed with the organization of the event. We also attended the Rally in Moab in 2004. In 2005 we moved to Colorado Springs and officially joined the Solihull Society. We did a few trails with the club that year including Chinaman’s Gulch. It was a nice change of scenery to get out of the desert and move to the mountains! We attended the National Rally in Leadville that year with both the XD and the Rangie and did some of the great trails like Iron Chest and Holy Cross. In 2006 we also attended the National Rally in Moab and rode with Bill Goodman of Kensington Motorcars from Las Vegas in the now famous “Frog in a Blender” 1994 Discovery. In 2007, we had our son, Jake. We also decided to sell the Rangie and get a new LR3 HSE, which has been fantastic! We haven’t done any mods to it yet, but it does great right out of the box. We’ve done Metberry Gulch, Modesto Pass, and Mosquito Pass with it. This past spring, we had the itch to get a series Rover, so we picked up a 1973 Series III that had been restored by a guy in the UK who brought it back with him when he came home to the States. Future plans for it include changing out the entire suspension and axles to a more modern Disco I platform and to add power steering! Over the years we’ve been thankful for the great friends that we have met through Land Rovers and look forward to many more years of fun on the trails! Modifications on the 1997 Discovery XD 3” Rovertym Suspension Lift 2” Rovertym Body Lift Rovertym Camber Adjusted Front Radius Arms Great Basin Rover Double Corbin Joint Drive Shaft Rovertrax Rover Heavy Duty Axls Custom Front Bumper Custom Rock Sliders 4:11 Gears from Great Basin Rovers RoverTrax Stainless Steel Tie Rods and Steering Damper Relocation Kit Atlantic British Skid Plate 35” Teraflex Tires on Walker Evans Racing Bead Locks Fender Flares ARB Lockers Front & Rear Hella 4000 Lighting System Warn 12000 lb winch KMC Diff Guards Rovers: 1997 Discovery XD 1973 Series 3 2007 LR3 HSE
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A Newsletter for Land Rover Aficionados
Health and Safety in Leadville Accute Mountain Sickness (AMS) (High Altitude Sickness)
AMS usually causes symptoms at least 8 to 36 hours after ascent. Symptoms of AMS can include, but are not limited to: •Headache that is not relieved by OTC pain relievers •Nausea or vomiting •Dizziness or lightheadedness •Weakness or fatigue •Difficulty sleeping •Loss of appetite As your body makes the normal adjustments to adapt to a higher altitude, you may experience a few symptoms that are bothersome but are not cause for concern. These include rapid (but still comfortable) breathing, shortness of breath with strenuous exercise (i.e. hiking, climbing, or mountain biking), occasional short pauses in breathing during sleep, and frequent urination. The last two symptoms are caused by a lowered carbon dioxide level which triggers adjustments in the brain and kidneys. More serious symptoms are caused by a lowered carbon dioxide level in the blood stream, and adjustments that are made by your circulation system and the assistance that may help alleviate the symptoms. If you begin to show symptoms of moderate AMS, don’t go any higher until the symptoms decrease. If symptoms increase: Go down, Go down, Go down!!!
Mine Safety Mining Legacy: Colorado’s heritage is mining. It’s what led many people to the state in 1859 and was the most important economic activity for many years. Over 23,000 hazardous mines and 1,300 miles of streams are impacted by past mining. Mine openings may seem safe to explore but are dangerous and can contain unstable soil, unsafe roofs and ladders, deadly gases, poisonous snakes and dangerous explosives. Abandoned Mine Safety The Colorado Division of Reclamation, Mining and Safety (DRMS) reminds everyone that abandoned mines are dangerous. The DRMS has been safeguarding abandoned/inactive mines since 1980. Of the estimated 23,000 abandoned mines, 6,127 have been made safe by the DRMS. Be Smart: Stay Out Of Abandoned Mines And Stay Alive
Keep in mind that different people will acclimate differently and at different rates. Make sure everyone in the party is properly acclimated before progressing higher.
Last year, 22 people died nationwide while exploring abandoned mines.
STAY PROPERLY HYDRATED!!! ACS is commonly accompanied by the loss of fluids, so drink PLENTY of water (at least four to six liters per day). Alcohol and sugary drinks may quench your thirst but can increase dehydration. Urine should be clear to faint yellow.
Victims of mining accidents have encountered deadly odorless gasses, fell down holes that opened under their weight, drowned in near-freezing pools of water at the bottom of shafts, and were buried in unpredictable cave-ins.
Take it easy: don’t over exert yourself when you first get to altitude. Light activity during the day is better than sleeping because sleep respiration decreases, exacerbating the symptoms. Avoid tobacco, alcohol, and any depressant drugs including; barbiturates, tranquilizers, sleeping pills, opiates (such as dihydrocodeine), and cannabis based drugs.
Many people are injured and killed every year while “just exploring” abandoned mines. Don’t be a victim. Stay Out. Stay Alive. http://mining.state.co.us
Eat a high calorie diet when at altitude! Forget your diet...the rest of your health depends on these foods. Remember: •AMS is worsened by overexertion, dehydration, and alcohol •Besides moving to a lower altitude, you can treat mild AMS with rest, water, and pain relievers.
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www.SolihullSociety.org 23
A LETTER AND A CARTOON Evolution of the Land Rover Toolkit
Series Rovers
Classic Rovers
Modern Rovers
Some things never change. A Letter From the Editor tate.crumbley@solihullsociety.org
Two months and two RoverXchange editions: what an introduction! If you’re reading this in Colorado but don’t live here, welcome to our great state. We’ve got some good stuff lined up, and we hope you have a good time. After epic sessions in front of the computer, I’m definitely looking forward to spending some time on the trails. Thanks to all those members who submitted photos for the cover contest. There were several really good ones, with Jean Excell taking the cover and Mike McCune coming in second for a spot on the back cover. Big thanks go to Ralph Bradt for the trail map, Jim Hall for the trail descriptions, Mike Pomponio for coordinating the sponsors, Chris Doty for organizing an event he’s never even attended, and Karen Kreutzer for making it all work. Remember, send in your pictures, articles, and trip reports for inclusion in our Fall Issue. Stay safe, have fun, and happy Rovering!
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A Newsletter for Land Rover Aficionados
Bill Burke’s
4-Wheeling America 970-858-3468 … bb4wa@bb4wa.com
Premier Training for all users of 4-wheel drives and all skill levels. Driving Techniques. Recovery. Safety. Environmental Awareness. Getting Prepared. Trail Spotting. Navigation. Field Fixes.
“Though I have driven off road many times before, I learned some great driving techniques from the class. It was fun to learn more about trail prep, recovery and trail fixes. Bill, I appreciated the mix of serious instruction with fun days on the trail and a good dose of patience for my slightly reluctant Disco.” Sam W., ‘07 “Being new to the sport, I was a little intimidated going into this class. But, thanks to Bill’s easygoing teaching style, I felt right at home. Not only did I learn a lot about the mechanics of my truck and the importance of being prepared, but we tackled some terrain that I wouldn’t have thought possible on my own.” Linda P., ‘08
www.bb4wa.com We hold BLM & USFS permits to operate on public lands.
●Private Instruction One-on-one with Bill Burke.
●Group Training Comprehensive training programs that include all you need to know about going into the remote back country safety.
●Industrial & Government Training Programs
“A few of us had the chance to spend the weekend wheeling with Bill here in the Northeast…. I have to say it's time well spent and one of the best investments you can make for your wheeling experience and knowledge.” David M., ‘03
DVDs by Bill Burke ●Getting UNStuck
●Getting PREpared
Safe recovery techniques. Real life situations!
Watch this DVD before you head out! Includes 8page booklet!
Custom safety programs for organizations that use 4WD vehicles in their operations.
●Trail Leader Training Trail leading is serious business not to be taken lightly. It is also fun if you are prepared for all situations. Learn skills needed to safely lead clubs, friends, and other groups.
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Rally 2009
www.SolihullSociety.org 25
2010 Range Rover As we meet in Leadville, Our Special Premier Sponsor Land Rover North America releases their newest Range Rover. Thank you, Land Rover. Without you, we might be driving Jeeps. -Editor’s Note Land Rover’s most complete luxury all-terrain vehicle just got better: the new 2010 Range Rover • All-new efficient and powerful LR-V8 engines • 5.0-liter V8 supercharged
o 510 bhp and 461 lb/ft torque
• 5.0-liter V8 naturally aspirated
o 375 bhp and 375 lb/ft torque
• Subtle exterior design changes enhance the classic Range Rover design with contemporary details
• Upgraded interior, featuring physical instrument cluster replaced by 12” Thin Film Transistor (TFT) screen with ‘virtual’ dials and information displays • State-of-the-art Adaptive Dynamics technology to further improve the Range Rover’s peerless ride quality • New brakes for all engine derivatives
• Updated Terrain Response™ and Dynamic Stability Control System for all-terrain performance • Active safety aids including Adaptive Cruise Control, Emergency Brake Assist, available Blind Spot Monitoring and Surround Camera system
Powerful new engines, advanced interior technologies and enhanced driving dynamics reinforce the position of the 2010 Range Rover as Land Rover’s most complete luxury all-terrain vehicle. Land Rover’s flagship has been comprehensively updated to deliver more refined and efficient performance, along with the ultimate in interior comfort and craftsmanship. The 2010 Range Rover has two brand new 5.0-liter LR-V8 engines – the top of the range 510 bhp supercharged unit, and the 375 bhp naturally aspirated version. Both engines were developed in-house by the Jaguar Land Rover pow-
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ertrain team, with the requirements of the Range Rover in mind from day one. The LR-V8 engines have been developed to deliver more power and refinement but without a corresponding increase in consumption and emissions. The result is a pair of lightweight direct fuel injection engines with classleading efficiency, which provide significantly more usable low end torque and superior dynamic responses without compromising power at higher RPM. Both engines are compliant with stringent U.S. ULEV2 emissions regulations. The performance of the all-new naturally aspirated LR-V8 is now a virtual-match for the outgoing 4.2L supercharged engine. The new naturally aspirated vehicle completes the 0-60 mph sprint in 7.2 seconds (just 0.1 seconds off the pace of the outgoing supercharged unit). For those who want the ultimate performance Range Rover, there is now the all-new LR-V8 5.0L Supercharged, which is propelled from rest to 60 mph in an impressive 5.9 seconds.
The 2010 improvements include subtle exterior revisions, featuring discrete changes to the headlights, grille and bumper which enhance the classic Range Rover design with more contemporary detailing. The interior benefits from more luxurious materials and finishes which add further refinements to the premium cabin ambiance. More significantly, the 2010 Range Rover uses some revolutionary new interior technologies which enhance the experience for both driver and passengers alike. A dramatic innovation is found in the instrument cluster. Here, traditional physical instruments are replaced by a 12” Thin Film Transistor screen which presents all essential driver information via cleverly designed ‘virtual’ dials and graphical displays. “The new display technology used by the 2010 Range Rover is a major advance. It gives us tremendous flexibility in presenting information, so that the driver gets precisely the data they require, in all driving conditions,” explains Nick Rogers, Chief Engineer, New Vehicle Architecture.
A Newsletter for Land Rover Aficionados
RoverXchange
Rally 2009
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Solihull Society PO Box 480864 Denver, CO 80248-0864