killingmoon65

I am planning on relocating back to Los Angeles from Detroit and taking my shark with. The question is do I take the chance with a 1978? She has just over 100K. Recent work done: TB, WP, rear shocks, all break pads, tyres, all fluids, radiator, all belts, front main seal, oil pump seal. I also am planning a transmission flush and filter change(auto) That's about it. Is there anything else major that I should give attention to before a 2000 mile sunday drive? The motor is currently running great with no noises or leaks, except that damn power steering pressure hose!
I have read many of the shipping stories and I'm a little hesitant. Besides, a nice two thousand mile trip would be a great chance for my shark and I to really bond! Or is this not realistic even if spread out over a week? Just curious to see what some of you think before i make a discission

tdelarm

I can understand your question and concern…however…you know your shark better than we do so…let’s see…

33 hours…2284 miles to Los Angeles.

You are probably looking at $1,000 t 0 $1500 to ship so…I would take a gamble and buy a triple “AAA” membership and head West. AAA gives you 100 miles…I think… (premium- membership) towing for free…

Worst case scenario all hell breaks loose and you spend the same in repairs getting there but…the bugs have shaken out and you are all the better for the LA freeways.

I say drive.

jon928se

The only obvious thing you haven't changed (may have been done since '78 though ? ) is coolant hoses. I'ld get the PS pressure hose changed as well if its leaking already - when they go if you're lucky you won't notice 'til the steering gets heavy and the pump starts making I'm dead noises. If you're unlucky it will squirt PS fluid all over the manifolds - PS fluid burns really well.

Other than that the only other preventative thing you could do is check for play in the front wheel bearings if you haven't done it recently - if there is none don't touch. If there is it is worthwhile pulling the hub off to investigate further - just tightening the bearing without checking condition of the races and rollers is a sure fire way of making sure the bearing decides it's time is up when you least want it too.

Pfunde

I drove from Copenhagen to Barcelona in one big race ( 2050 km ) and on the way back we stopped in Austria for some summer skiing . Home trip was 2600 km, so I guess we did something like 3000 miles, the first 2000 km was basicly nonstop...... No problems, just alot of fuelstops

maroonedlandshark

These cars were made to drive. If you can spare a week for the trip I would definately drive it. Just check the car out and service it before you go. As mentioned above, have AAA membership and enjoy the scenery. What better way to see this great country of ours than behind the wheel of a Shark.

Mike Frye

I vote for driving. I will never again pay anyone else to tow or ship my shark. I was new to ownership and didn't know any better, but the experience was not pleasant. Mine was using a road service, so the AAA membership may or may not help you.

I'm with Jon about the leaky PS line. I wouldn't go on a trip over 100 miles if I knew anything was leaking, let alone over 2k.

It sounds like you've got a good car and a good plan, 100k is just a youngster, so if it's running well, the mileage is a non-issue in my book. Good luck and keep us posted, it sounds like fun .

WallyP

If you can't drive it, why would you want it?

If you have a laptop, contact Jim Morehouse and get the complete set of CDs that includes the shop manuals. Handy to have the info in case of problems - few shops have all of the info that they need.

A lap top is also handy in case you need to ask us some questions while you are on the road.

"928 Road Help" lists by state those owners who can be called for assistance if you happen to breakdown on a trip. The list is ONLY distributed to those who are willing to put their own names and contact info on it to prevent phone numbers,etc from reaching those who might abuse them. You don't have to be a mechanic or have a garage to signup, just be willing to offer assistance that could range from calling a tow/getting a hotel/recommending a shop... all the way to having lift/manuals/tools/expertise and a spare room. Some of the folks list if they are open to 'social visits' by passing members.

Each entry is sorted by state with a location given (usually in reference to nearest interstates), contact phone numbers, contact restrictions (ex. "no calls after 10PM") along with the level of assistance that can be offered.

You can sign up and get the latest listings by sending an email with the above info to:
928roadhelpATatlanticbb.net (change the AT to @)

A few tools, a few supplies (a couple of quarts of oil, a roll of electrical tape, some wire ties, etc. etc.) might be useful.

Take the cell phone, the camera, a little cash, and enjoy!

SteveG

Weather?? I assume you are taking this into consideration in planning the route and are slightly fexible on the departure date. It would be a shame to coat your shark with salt on the way to a salt free home.

Jim bailey - 928 International

Wally ..."If you can't drive it, why would you want it?" That is a classic !! and 2,300 miles is an easy three day trip. Take the southern route and avoid much of the snow.

Lizard928

+1 for fixing the PS hose, or unhooking the belt.

Mike Frye

Lizard,

Have you tried driving one of these without the 'power' in the power steering? It's a bear to turn it even at moderate speed (two hands and a lot of grunting), it would be almost impossible to get through traffic. I don't think this is an option.

Ask me how I know this one:

Sharkbody

Drive! Get a good road force analysis and alignment first though, especially if you have fairly new rubber. G

danglerb

Make sure your car is going to pass Calif Smog inspection, pick a route both scenic and through population centers, take two credit cards, have somebody else that knows 928's safety check the car for a trip.

Whats the big risk, that "maybe" you have to have it shipped part way if you run into major problems?

I don't think its very fair to join the road help list for a trip, especially if you are traveling through the boonies and then living in the city. Post to this forum, and somebody should be able to provide some kind of assistance.

Take a day or two more time and SEE a few things.

killingmoon65

I think driving is the right answer. A few hoses and things to change and look at but I have a few months to get her ready. Thanks so much guys. That's what I was hoping you would say! I'll post as I get closer to blast-off. Now I'm excited.

heinrich

Driving this time of year will SUCK, there is too much snow.