Project First Degree

[Dirk Kolnsberg]

The first step in any multi-step self-help program I believe is to admit that you have a problem ... and I admit it. This time though it isn't entirely my fault, it is my wife's. After having been to Nationals a few times she has decided that she really likes the Terra Scouts and has been bugging me (OK, she really only mentioned it once or twice but that was enough) to find one so she can have it to drive around.

Enter Project First Degree - a partially melted but otherwise intact Super Terra posted in the BP classified ads. From the pictures I was sent I have most of the parts that appear to be damaged from a road side fire, but only a good tear down will ultimately tell the whole story.

This post is the start of the entire ordeal, starting the night before the 2000 mile road trip to Phoenix (kind of fitting if you think of the whole fire to ashes to flaming bird stuff) to haul it back here to Houston for its resurrection. Along the way I will hook up with BioTex out of west Texas and maybe slip in a few Craigslist finds into the trip.

[sullyscout77]

"GODSPEED AND SAFE PASSAGE MY IH-AFFLICTED FRIEND"!

Sorry I couldn't get out of work to ride shotgun, but will be sharing your trip vicariously thru Binder Planet with the others. Don't forget the "Dirk travel pack" and maybe swap the Gatorade with some Red Bull. Can't wait to see that "extended cab" and I can bring you the best of the two extra hoods we have at my place!
Be careful Buddy and have a blast! (Don't forget the departure shot)!

[Dirk Kolnsberg]

Thanks for the well wishes Sully, I will do my best to post along the way. I am heading out of the door, only 18+ hours to go - one way!

[Fred Demmon]

Safe travels my friend

Keep us updated on the progress when possible.

One of these days I will get to share in on a road trip

[Dennis Bernth]

I was drooling over that one myself, looked like a fairly easy fix although we all know how THAT usually works out. Good luck and safe travels, I think you'll like it once you get it home.

[Holt Harlan]

right on Dirk, I was looking at that as well. cant wait to see it in person

and yes... you do have a "IHC" problem

[Dirk Kolnsberg]

Well, it is 11:00 PM here in Phoenix and we are loaded and ready to head back. 18 hours is a long haul one way, thanks to Eric (BioTex) for joining me for the ride from Alpine to Phoenix. Here are a few pictures starting with this morning.

Now for the ride home!

[sullyscout77]

Awesome!! Who needs Red Bull when you're hauling something that nice?!

Couldn't help but notice that your tow rig is looking pretty gnarly as well!

Be careful out there and as they say; "KEEP THE SHINEY/SMOKEY SIDE UP"!

[Fred Demmon]

Sounds like you are making great time. Glad you were able to get Eric to ride along to give you some company

Hope your journey home is safe and un-eventful

Look forward to seeing your latest "family member"

[Dirk Kolnsberg]

We made it back to Alpine and am now showered and rested and getting ready for the final leg to Houston. Here are a few more pictures before I head out. Thanks again to Eric for helping out with the requisitioning, shower and a flat bed and to Fred for the use of his trailer - you two are enablers and I am thankful.

More tomorrow when I can get the hood up and look at a few more things.