Military-Vehicles: Re: [MV] Route 66

Re: [MV] Route 66

FIREBASEZ@aol.com
Tue, 9 Sep 1997 22:47:33 -0400 (EDT)

Auke,
I live near Rt 66, about 60 miles east of LA. I am familiar with the RT from
here through Topock AZ, Oatman AZ, to Kingman AZ (about 300 miles). From
Kingman west to the Needles, CA is pretty desolate. Old mining area, 2 lane
hwy. Goes from flat and long, to hilly and winding with switchbacks. No gas
beyween Kingman and AZ Rt 95, as I recall.

Laughlin Nevada is near here, on the Colorado River, with Las Vegas Style
casinos and dining. The Ramada Station Casino occasionally does a WWII
promotion memorabilia, exhibits, and vehicles. Last time they had a Dodge
Command car, M-20, DUKW, and others.

>From Needles to Barstow CA (about 200 miles), there are only 1 or 2 gas stops
about 75-100 miles apart.

An old indian trail/wagon road runs parallel to this route. This is in
virtually the same condition as it was 100 years ago. This is a hearty off
road detour if you want some adventure, and takes about 2 days. The Mormon
Battallion also used this trail during the Mexican American War. There are
still rocks with soldiers initials and dates carved in them. Water is scarce,
gas scarcer, camping is primitive.

The George S.Patton museum is off Interstate 10 about 75 miles south of here,
at the site of a WWII tank training camp.

In Barstow the DRMO boneyard at the Marine Corps Logistics Base may be of
interest. Ft. Irwin (site of desert warfare training) is also near there.
Calico Ghost Town outside Barstow is a restored western mining town from the
late 1800's. It is interesting and camping (or rental cabins) is available.

>From Barstow to Rancho Cucamonga (about 70 miles) you are getting into
civilization, and will hit traffic etc. There is a small Rt 66 museum in
Rancho Cucamonga, CA. . The March AFB museum and Chino Planes of Fame museum
are nearby, with restored warbirds.

This is near my house. You guys are welcome to stay, or I can arrange group
camping/hotel nearby. Maybe even an exhibit of your vehs for a day while you
R and R.

>From here to LA you are really in the city. Heavy traffic, crowds etc. Would
not attempt going to/departing LA on a weekday. A couple of small MV
museums/collections in the area.

This entire leg is dessert travel. Temps in summer run 100-120 F. Winter
temps are below freezing at night, up to low 90's in day. Usually hot
through october. Subject to flash floods, and winds up to 75 mph can occur.
Spring more moderate (Feb-Apr), but we are expecting severe rain this
winter/spring due to the El Nino.

There should be enough MVPA affilliated clubs along the route to set up
contacts in case of mechanical problems. I can help with parts sources and
mechanics/tows on this leg.

Maybe some US list members would like to join you along the way, for a grand
entrance into LA. If you decide to stop short of LA, I would be happy to
arrange a parade, display, BBQ, etc. I can also possibly arrange private
tours of the bases, museums, and other points of interest.

If you would like, I can start collecting maps, brochures, and Rt. 66 stuff
to mail to you. I believe that there are several Rt 66 websites also.

Byron
CA, USA
Ferret Scout Car.
Humber Pig (by proxy)

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