Heartland Run - Kansas

[DOGMAN]

Paul,

You out rank everyone, so you can be "Formation Leader", codename AIRTIM.E.XPLOR.R -- Your mission, should you decide to accept it, would be to retask a RECON sattelite to get an overhead shot of the EXPLORER MISSING MAN FORMATION -- a tribute to Todd and any other explorer4x4.com faithful who couldn't make the trip.

If anyone can get their hands on a copy of Petersen's BEST TRAIL RIDES & TIPS from late summer/early fall 1999, there is an article in there on page 48 about Tuttle Creek ORV area. It's a two page spread with 7 pictures and complimentary text. I just happened to see it on the newsstand today, it had a notice that said "Display until 10/18/99", so I don't know why it was still there, but I'm glad it was. I'll try to scan it and put it online, although I've never done that before, so any help would be appreciated.

DOGMAN

 

[vcmudder]

Hey guys sorry it took me so long to see this. I haven't been online in a while. Sounds like a sweet trip. I've got a hub conversion project happening this week but hopefully all goes well. I'm going to try to get up there from the big town of VC. I'll do my best but I got to see what's going on that weekend. If I don't make it take some cool pics so I can go down some other time and play.

 

[Paul]

Tried to post additional photos of Tuttle Creek - - failed...

Anyway, the Run is just 2+ weeks away... Plenty of time to work those last minute modifications.

VCMudder - it'd be great to have you along.

Matt, Gerald, Sinjin - - still in?


Paul

[This message has been edited by Paul J. Sabin (edited 02-03-2000).]

[This message has been edited by Paul J. Sabin (edited 02-03-2000).]

 

[DOGMAN]

Would everyone that has expressed interest in the Tuttle Creek Run on Feb. 19&20 please post on this thread to indicate if you are coming or not so Paul and I can better plan the weekend's events. If you're still not sure, that's OK, just let us know.

The only thing that we are absolutely certain of at this point is that all in attendance are going to have a great time at a really nice place.

Any questions?

Stay tuned. More info to follow.

DOGMAN

 

[mattadams]

Hate to say it but I probably won't be there this time, wish I could but we are swamped at work and getting out is not looking too possible. If for some reason we slow down I'll be there btu right now I don't think I will. Have funw ithout me if you go!

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Matt Adams
94 Explorer 4-door nick-named "Tippy"
http://bart.is-s.com/~explorers/explorer/explorer.html

 

[GJarrett]

AAAAARRRRGGGH!
I cannot commit at this point! If you've read my posts on the run I did last weekend you'll see I'm going to do several mods before I can go again. And since I have three jobs and several other weekday responsibilities, that only gives me an hour per night and Saturday to get ready. Don't think I can do that in one week. I'm driving my Honda and the EddieB is in the garage in pieces right now.
Dead Link Removed
-------------------------------------------------

Hey Dogman,

The carnage isn't bad at all (really) but I also realize that I came out a little lucky.

All I am saying is that there are a few mods that I insist on getting done before I strike out to the wild blue yonder again and I don't know if I can get all that done in a day. The clearance on this new model EB (even with the 2" torsion/shackle lift) is a real handicap. Before the next outing I need the following adjustment$ at the very least:

1) Proctective skis on the underside of the running board.
2) Move front bumper one inch forward / fabricate some sort of spacers for it.
3) One inch body lift (hockey pucks?)
4) Hopefully with a little creative fitting and a "fenderwell modification tool" the above two mods will allow me to cram 285/75r16s under it.

There's a lot more I plan -- grillguard and winch immediately come to mind -- but these constitute the absolute minimum before I go out again. I've already got 2" of lift. With one more inch on the body and the extra 1.3" radius of the larger tires I should get over 4" extra clearance over stock. I need all I can get for those running boards.

Sounds like I may have a very busy Saturday. I'll keep you posted if I actually accomplish all this in time to meet up with you. I hope so.

Gerald
'99 EB 4x4
Dead Link Removed "What the !#@$ is he doing out here in that thing?"

 

[DOGMAN]

Gerald,

Saddle up EddieB and bring all the loose parts with you, I've got this ultimate roll of duct tape.......

Sorry to hear of the carnage. Hope everything goes back together OK.

DOGMAN

 

[DOGMAN]

Gerald,

You are a trooper, arn't you. Doesn't sound like those four letter words quit and fail have any place in your vocabulary. Best of luck! Would love to see your mods in person.

Possible incriminating question: Are your running boards removeable? Seems like an obvious question. I've never heard you address this possibility. I assume they could be tied into the body, and removing them would be a major job, as well as alter the look of the vehicle.

Ground clearance is a blessing, isn't it?

DOGMAN

 

[Paul]

Gerald -

Good luck with the mods - - hope you can accomplish them in time for the Run. As previously stated, there are numerous areas of Tuttle Creek that are viable for totally stock vehicles - - I witnessed a stock J**p climb some of the more arduous stuff last weekend without damage..., but I understand your desire to protect your rig.

BTW, I noticed some magnetic "panels" that can be applied to protect vehicles from "trail pinstriping" in this months 4 Wheel and Off-Road magazine (p.144). Something to consider for owners of newer Explorers. Their site is http://offroadarmor.com.

Matt - Hope you can make it.

Paul
'91 Sport

[This message has been edited by Paul J. Sabin (edited 02-10-2000).]

 

[GJarrett]

Actually, removing the running boards looks pretty easy. Remove twelve 13mm bolts, figure out how to unhook and store away the electrical connections for the running board lights, and that's it.

But those things obviously protected me from severe "trail pinstriping" so if I did remove them I would have to get some of those magnetic body armor thingies. Also, it was sort of a hoot to see the expressions on J**pers out there at the novelty of my vehicle. I'd like to see how well I can maintain trailworthiness without stripping it down to go offroad and maintain some of that novelty. It wouldn't quite be the same if I started leaving half of my body parts home each time I went out.

 

[Paul]

DIRECTIONS FOR TUTTLE CREEK

1) From I-70, use exit 313 vicinity Manhatten.
2) Exit 313 is Highway 177, follow it NORTH for 9 miles.
3) After crossing the Kansas River, take the first RIGHT after the bridge, which quickly comes to a stoplight (at a "T" intersection).
4) At the stoplight turn LEFT, which is a combination Highway 177 North, 24 West, and Tuttle Creek Boulevard.
5) Follow 177N, 24W, and Tuttle Creek Blvd for 1.5 miles to the Days Inn, located on the left. Address is 1501 Tuttle Creek Blvd. Phone is (785)539-5391.
6) From the Days Inn, continue on Tuttle Creek Blvd / 24W for 14.3 miles to the intersection of 24W and Highway 77.
7) Continue straight through the intersection (no lights, just signs) on highway 77 North for 9.4 miles. After the 9+ miles, you will enter the town of Randolph.
8) Turn RIGHT on Randolph Street. It is next to Sharp's Gas station.
9) Follow Randolph Street for a 1/4 mile to the "T" intersection. Turn RIGHT.
10) After the right turn (road name unknown) travel approximately 1 mile. You'll see a sign on the right hand side of the road for "Tuttle Creek ORV Area" (with an arrow pointing left). Turn LEFT and follow the dirt trail for about 1 mile, which leads to the staging areas for the park.

Here's a map: Dead Link Removed

We'll establish link up times and locations next week.

Paul
'91 Sport

 

[Gofast]

Whoooo Hoooooo!!!!!

I'm in. I'm bringing the family so they can enjoy the trails as well. Plan on driving up on Friday. Late night ( Have VCR to keep everyone happy on the drive ) Ready whenever on Saturday. They still can't believe I'm skipping the anual Car Club drag Races. If I'm lucky I'll have the lift kit done otherwise sign me up for the easier runs.

Gerrald & Brian? Will the DFW gang be there in force?

------------------
Rob Robertson
"It's an Explorer Thing, you wouldn't understand"

 

[DOGMAN]

We will be meeting at the Days Inn Sat. morning at 9am and heading to Tuttle Creek ORV area soon thereafter. Let Paul or I know if you are staying at the Days Inn Fri. night so we can look for each other. Also, tell the hotel people that you are with the explorer4x4.com group so they can try to lump us together. Make sure they give you the $44/night rate, you have to ask for it.

Looking forward to meeting everybody for a fun weekend of wheeling. Post or e-mail to let us know that you are coming, also, if we can answer any questions that you may have.

DOGMAN

 

[Gofast]

"OK", I called to get a room. I was told that the $44 rate did not exist on weekends? I was pushy in a nice way but still did not get that rate. I tried both local and the 800 number. I did get the corp. rate of $52.00 plus tax. Need to show a business card to get this. Anyway, do you have an inside contact? I booked a room for Fri And Sat night. I'm ready to run.

Gerald,Brian,Sinjin? Anyone else going?

------------------
Rob Robertson
"It's an Explorer Thing, you wouldn't understand"

 

[mattadams]

IF I DO GO I may be splitting a hotel room with Gerald. Still unsure of plans, my box probably won't be done by then and getting vacation time may be tricky. Also, Gerald, you asked on another thread (the one about the lights on the roof rack) if anyone had a winch. I do, but of course I don't know if I'll be there so that's of little help Dead Link Removed. I've been fortunate enough to get to use my winch about 4-8 times now (lost count) but I have never had to use it for myself.

------------------
Matt Adams
94 Explorer 4-door nick-named "Tippy"
http://bart.is-s.com/~explorers/explorer/explorer.html

 

[Paul]

As Mike (DOGMAN) stated, we'll link-up at the Days Inn at 0900 on Saturday morning (the 19th) to head up to the ORV Park. If you're coming into town a bit later, just meet us at the staging area - - we'll swing through there often enough to pick up any one else who shows.

Glad you can make it, Rob. My current count identifies Mike, Ryan, Rob, and me. Additional potential participants include Gerald, Matt, Brian, Sinjin, BrettW, and VCMudder.

Anyone else??

One week and counting...

Paul
'91 Sport
"Explorers - - If I have to explain it, you wouldn't understand" Dead Link Removed

 

[Gofast]

How quickly can "your Bubble burst". Soory guys, after making reservations I have to back out. I made the decision ( based heavly on Paul's comments ) to get a Superlift 5.5 kit. The shop can't get me in till Friday before Tuttle. I'm sure they can get me out sameday, but I'm hesitant to travel 400 miles on an untested Lift kit. I'll probable hit Local DFW area and make sure everything checks out.

On the brighter side, I'll make a trip up there this summer. I have a good friend in KS that wants to bring his stock Explorer down to play as well.

Happy Trails

------------------
Rob Robertson
"It's an Explorer Thing, you wouldn't understand"

 

[DOGMAN]

Gofast Rob,

Bummer!

Of course heading up the same day you got your lift done would be a cool story.

Ever think of bribing the guys doing your lift to moving you up a few days? EVERYTHING is negotiable.

You'll like the 5.5". It works well.

Sorry about the hotel snafu. Don't worry, anyone that stays there for the run, I'll definitely get you a $44/night rate. I was guaranteed that by the manager. A few of the clerks there won't do anything without the manager's OK, they don't like even asking the manager for anything. I was given the same runaround about not getting the $44 rate for the weekend, even after I confirmed the $44 rate with the manager. The manager's name is Christine Collins. I'll call her and set everything straight.

I'll be bringing my 31x10.50 Dueler M/T's to the run for anyone that is interested in buying them.

Matt, Gerald, Sinjin, -- GIDDYUP!!!

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DOGMAN
91 4dr 5sp
5.5" Superlift

 

[mattadams]

OK, few questions on the trip... Gerald, are you planning on getting a room for friday saturday and sunday or what? Also are we going to be doing some difficult trails or more the trails that stockers can do?

------------------
Matt Adams
94 Explorer 4-door nick-named "Tippy"
http://bart.is-s.com/~explorers/explorer/explorer.html

 

[DOGMAN]

Matt,

We'll be running whatever trails anyone wants to run, no set agenda. I'm sure we'll be running trails that are suitable for stock and less modified rigs, remember, the stock rigs can do more than most people think, but I'm also sure we'll attack the trails that are a challenge for the modified group. That's the great thing about Tuttle Creek, you can run from mild to wild in a fairly small area. It's like a big playground. It doesn't really have any long trails that once you're on, you have to drive many miles to finish. Most trails are short runs, many in the 100 to 200 yard range, usually with a couple of different lines around the more difficult obstacles. There are also a number of open areas that have a variety of ledges, so everyone can gather around and watch. Trust me, you'll like it.

As far as accomodations goes, if you make the trip, you'll have a place to stay. If Gerald can't make it, you can share my room if you like. I plan on staying Fri, Sat, Sun.

Do you have the M/T HP's installed yet?

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DOGMAN
91 4dr 5sp
5.5" Superlift