Monthly Archives: July 2018

31 Jul

MCCDC MOG 48 in Natural Bridge VA, 27-29 July 2018  

The MCCDC MOG 48 was great fun!  This year it was held at the historic Natural Bridge Hotel, 27 – 29 July 2018.

Everything was close at hand, with the Concours and Gymkhana on the property grounds and the rally on Route 11 and the Blue Ridge Parkway.

There were 27 shiny (ok, a few were dusty …) Morgans on the Concours field.  The array of Morgans included some 5 Three Wheelers – 4 Vintage Trikes and 1 new(ish) 5 Speeder.  There were two Roadsters, a whole gaggle of Plus 8 and lots of Plus 4s, both 2 Seaters and 4 Seaters.  A single DHC, but a very pretty one.  Not that many 4/4s but the model was well represented by those that were there.  There were even two race-prepared Morgans.  All were very well presented and spruced up.

Well, sort of.  As it took Andrea and I two full days (and one really bad rain storm) to get there in the Roadster, we didn’t even clean off the bugs.  We just kept them, sort of like a badge of honor . . . We did put a DO NOT JUDGE card on the windshield, though.  We didn’t want anyone to waste their time looking at the car.

I have decided that the ‘easy up’ top is not really all that easy.  On the way up to Natural Bridge we got caught in a flash rain storm.  It wasn’t too bad, until it was really bad.  I couldn’t see and had to pull to the right and slow down.  That really didn’t help and I thought I would have to just stop the car, get out and put the top up in the rain, but then, out of the damp and gloom  was an overpass!  I pulled under it . . . well, I sort of missed at first and had to back up, but finally I was able to get out of the car to manhandle the top.  ‘Easier’ maybe, but not easy.  Good thing we had lots of towels.

Someone in their wisdom decided that the autocross was unnecessary and it was omitted from the schedule for the MOG Meet this year.  In my opinion, this was a very good thing.  In my experience with the MCCDC meets, only a few folks really participated in the autocross and it was an extremely costly event (with track rentals, insurance, EMTs, etc.) and severely limited the Club from going to many really good locations, like Natural Bridge.  And, all those I talked to, even hard core Autocrossers, didn’t seem to mind that the club omitted the autocross from the schedule.

The weather was great.  Sunny and not too warm.  (Getting there, for us anyway, was another story, but . . . )  It was a bit hot on the Concours field and shade was at a premium.  Andrea managed to find some shade along the tree line that bordered the field, but it was a moving sort of thing.  The sun kept changing positions in the sky (go figure!) and that necessitated an adjustment in the position of the lawn chairs.

There was a huge number of MCCDC members, both old (vintage?) and new at the meet. Some even came without cars. (I was told many times that the car was almost done except for that unattainable ‘what’s it’ and just not ready for prime time . . .)  It really didn’t matter to us.  It was a bit like old home week.  Seeing friends that we hadn’t seen in a very long time had to be one of the highlights of the event for Andrea and I.

We lived in Northern Virginia for 8 years, and we went to the MCCDC MOGs every year, but then we moved away.  And, that was some 25 years ago!  We did go to the MOG meet a few times after we left but not many.  So, I guess it has been quite a while since we attended a MCCDC MOG meet (maybe 10 years?)

Seeing old friends, like Richard Lipski, Peggy Morris, Bev Shriver (and she is getting married in October!), Ron and Monique Naida, Penny Bates, Alan Marsh, Ed Zielinski, Pat and Sue MacAuley, and their brood, (the MacAuley girls grew up, and are now running around with kids of their own, not really sure how that happened?)  Doug and Paulette Markham and on and on.  Some folks there were totally unexpected and were very pleasant surprises for us, like Richard Lipski and Peggy Morris, Duncan and Lee Charlton, etc.

A good number of MOGSouth folks were there as well, some with cars and some without.  Gene Spainhour and Pat Harris were there with their exquisite F4 three-wheeler, Rich Fohl brought out his race car, Bev Shriver, Doug and Paulette Markham were there in the recently converted, ex-propane Plus 8, Alan Marsh and others.  Really a good crowd of folks.  Needless to say, discussions on the Hotel’s veranda went late into the night, some of which went far beyond ‘auto parts’ and were quite thought provoking (oh, and the keg of beer didn’t hurt.)

The awards banquet was surprisingly good. The Hotel did a nice job with the meal, even taking care of those with dietary restrictions.  They went beyond the standard rubber chicken.

The evening comments were brief and didn’t run on forever, which was good.  (One of things I personally hated about some past MOG meets was the endless awards presentations and forced humor during the banquet.)  It seemed as if they would never end.   Well, there usually was a beer keg waiting on the porch . . .

We got up early on Sunday to head home.  It was then that the car exhibited it’s only burp of the weekend.  We packed up, stretched our bungee cords over the lawn chairs, did the pirouette and limbo thing to get in and then turned the key – nothing, nada, no go.  It wouldn’t start??

Looking under the bonnet of a Roadster is pretty futile.  It’s just one large plastic cover and a few unidentifiable objects.  Ok, so what now??  I opened the gas cap and tried again – Voila!!  It started right up.  Perhaps vapor lock?

The drive home did include a little drama.  We had torrential rain storm only about a half hour away from our Sunday night hotel.  This time we had the top up, but the rain came down in buckets.  So much so I had to pull over on the side of the road, as I couldn’t see well enough to drive safely.  The Roadster’s wipers do work quite well, even on the intermittent setting, but it wasn’t enough for that deluge.  And, I wasn’t the only car that pulled over.  There were quite a few of us sitting there with our hazards flashing.  After 10 minutes or so it lightened up and we finished our drive.  Dinner at Waffle House, oh boy!!

Monday was just a long drive with only one memorable incident.  We sat, dead stopped on the highway for about a half hour.  Google Maps at first said a 3 minute delay, then 4 minutes, then 6 minutes . . .

Lots of folks got out of their cars to stretch their legs or let their dogs find a bush.  When we finally got going again we passed the source of the problem.  Some unfortunate soul had launched their truck and towed RV off the road and down a ravine.  The RV was totally demolished and I suspect so was their hope for a nice uneventful vacation.  Other than that, not too bad.

We got home, found the house, released the dogs from their crates, jumped in the pool and looked hard at the really tall grass.  I know what I will be doing soon!

Chores . . . they just don’t seem to go away.   Well, at least I can reminisce about this recent MOG Meet and anticipate the fun of the next!   Hope to see you there!!

Cheers, Mark

20 Jul

More Updates – 2018 MOGSouth Holiday Party (updates as of 20 Jul 2018)

The 2018 Holiday Party will be held at the St Simons Island King & Prince Resort, on Sat 1 Dec 2018. 

It looks like this event will be a good one!  Responses so far have been amazing and we haven’t even had our Fall Meet this year! 

Most folks have indicated that they will arrive on Friday, 30 November.

There is a Trolley Tour scheduled for Saturday morning that gives you great views and lots of historic insight into St Simons Island.

The Trolley Tour is $20 per person.  This Tour has received numerous accolades, year after year.

Mark Braunstein has the list of who has already signed up to go on the Tour, and we have already filled one Trolley.  A second Trolley Tour has being arranged.  Space on the Trolley is limited so don’t miss out.

Send Mark an email (series1@cfl.rr.com) as soon as possible, if you want to go on the Tour.  If we fill a second Trolley, it will be the last.   Also, let Mark know if you are staying in the King and Prince Hotel and will be attending the Holiday Banquet.

We will collect the money as we get on the Trolley Bus.  Please bring cash or personal check to pay.  We cannot take credit cards.

19 Jul

Thrill on the Hill to Honour 50 years of the Plus 8 (www.automotiveworld.com July 18, 2018)

To celebrate the 50th anniversary of the iconic Morgan Plus 8, Morgan Motor Company will play host to the UK’s largest gathering of Morgan cars at their annual Thrill on the Hill event, on 11th and 12th August.

[This looks to be good fun!  If you haven’t as yet been to one of the big MMC events in the UK, you should plan on it.  They are quite elaborate and well worth the effort.   Mark] 

Morgan owners and fans will come together across two days to enjoy an array of entertainment including a spectacular aerial display.  Marking 50 years of the Morgan Plus 8, there will be an impressive heritage lineup of this legendary model. Morgan have enlisted the help of their owners to put together a handpicked lineup of 50 Plus 8’s representing all eras of production.  Included within the lineup is;

  • ‘MMC 11’ The factory owned 1968 car that inspired the current 50th anniversary edition
  • ‘OUY 200E’ The first 1968 prototype Plus 8 that currently resides in San Francisco with Morgan Dealer, Bill Fink. This car is being brought over from the USA especially for the event.
  • ‘AB 16’ The original Plus 8 formerly owned by Peter Morgan
  • ‘J 9546’ The last ever original Plus 8 to be built, owned by Keith Ahlers
  • ‘Plus 8 50th’ The first of the new Plus 8 50th special editions to be built, currently a factory owned vehicle

Festivities kick off on Saturday at the Malvern factory with live music from the UK’s most authentic soul band, Soul Traffic, who will be playing the biggest and best soul numbers from the 60s. The Rockabellas will also be serving up a mix of swinging big band hits from the bygone years and bespoke arrangements of modern pop songs.

The entertainment extends beyond Morgan motoring with pampering beauty treatments, classic barber service offering men’s grooming and traditional fairground rides for all. There will be delicious artisan food, the opportunity to earn some specialised crafts and even the opportunity to witness craftsmanship firsthand with a guided tour through the Morgan factory. A huge firework display will conclude the first day with a bang.

In amongst all of the other thrills that Morgan Motor Company have in store across the two days, fans will be delighted to be the at the forefront for official unveiling of not one but two new items of merchandise soon to be available.  [Now who will be the first in line?? Mark]

On Sunday, the action continues over at Prescott Hill Climb where visitors will be treated to a day of motorsport as 100s of Morgans take to the famous hill. Visitors will have the option to power around the course in their own Morgan or jump in the passenger seat of a factory car via pre-bookable timed runs. The lunchtime parade is an event highlight not to be missed as an entire squadron of Morgan machines take to the track for a full display before Richard Goodwin performs airplane stunts in his Pitts S2S muscle bi-plane.

After the excitement and success of last year’s inaugural Pickersleigh 3 run, Morgan are proud to be running it again. On Sunday 12th August the drive out of 3 Wheelers new and old will set off from the factory in Malvern, making the journey to awaiting crowds at Prescott Hill Climb. The Pickersleigh 3 is open to anyone with a Morgan 3 Wheeler and a valid Sunday ticket for Thrill on the Hill.

Steve Morris Managing Director of Morgan Motor Company, said: “We’re excited to announce the return of Thrill on the Hill for 2018. Our annual Summer events have continued to prove popular among owners and enthusiasts alike, and we expect this year to be better than ever as we welcome visitors from around the world to celebrate 50 years of the Morgan Plus 8.  I’m particularly excited that we are able to bring OUY 200E, the very first Plus 8, back to the UK from the USA specifically for the event.

18 Jul

TWI combines heritage with innovation for the Morgan Motor Company (www.cambridgenetwork.co.uk) July 17, 2018

[This is mostly a technical discussion about advanced manufacturing processes necessitated by the challenges faces with joining dissimilar metals, like those used by the MMC.  

For those of you that want the ‘CliffsNotes’ version the good news is that the Morgan Motor Company is now working with others, paid for by UK grants, on ways to improve joining dissimilar alloys, resulting in weight saving, strength gains and ultimately lower costs.   All good stuff!   

In my opinion, the MMC needs to keep up with evolving technologies, within reason, rather than become complacent in ‘old school’ ways.   Cheers, Mark]

Established in 1909, The Morgan Motor Company produces the longest-running production car in the world, the Morgan 4/4, which has been in production since 1936.

Famous for their heritage, the British manufacturer is rightly proud of their history of hand-built sports cars, but that doesn’t mean that they haven’t kept up with the times. Morgan collaborated with TWI in an Innovate UK project to further optimise the structural design of their vehicles, while reducing manufacturing costs.

Car manufacturers are being challenged by progressively stricter emission regulations and an overall demand for higher fuel efficiency. One of the most immediate ways to achieve this is to decrease the weight of the vehicles by using lighter materials and optimising the structure of the car body. A smarter use of materials often means lowering raw material and assembly costs, especially when several parts can be consolidated to form an integral piece. Lightening a car may also improve handling, which is paramount to a sports car manufacturer such as Morgan.

Car bodies are made predominantly of stamped sheet metal. One of the solutions for maximising the structural performance of stamped parts is a tailor welded blank fabrication. Dissimilar materials can be joined in the same blank prior to stamping, tailoring local properties like strength, ductility or corrosion resistance. Sheet thickness can also be tailored according to the expected load path, saving unnecessary material.

Although steel laser welded blanks have been an established solution since the 90s, there has been a progressive integration of aluminium alloys in car bodies. However, aluminium tailor welded blanks are not as widely available in the market. Suppliers typically offer laser welded products in 5xxx or 6xxx series aluminium alloys. Using a fusion welding process to join aluminium blanks has inherent drawbacks like porosity formation (which can be minimised, but not completely avoided) and solidification cracking, especially when joining 6xxx. Solidification cracking in 6xxx series can be mitigated by using a filler material (typically from the 4xxx or 5xxx series), but will require a slower welding speed compared to autogenous welding, making this application less cost-effective. The alloy of the joint made with a filler wire has significantly inferior strength and formability. Using a filler will also cause what is known as an overfilled joint (i.e. a weld bead proud of the sheet surface).  By standing proud of the sheet surface, an overfilled joint negatively affects the stamping operation making the joint more likely to split. Furthermore, aluminium laser welded joints often lack ductility, limiting the complexity of the stamped parts. Furthermore, there are no current offers in the market for supplying blanks in higher strength aluminium series, namely 2xxx and 7xxx.

Funded by Innovate UK, project LightBlank’s aim was to develop and fully implement a UK-based supply chain to manufacture aluminium alloy friction stir tailor welded blanks formed by a new stamping process called Hot Form Quenching (HFQ). HFQ combines solution heat treatment, stamping, quenching and artificial ageing. Complex aluminium blanks can be stamped while restoring the parent material properties. Friction stir welding (FSW) avoids many of the problems associated with joining aluminium using traditional techniques. It can also promote superplastic behaviour of the joint, enabling more ambitious geometries to be stamped. The consortium included Impression Technologies Ltd, PAB Coventry Ltd, Imperial College of London, Bombardier Transportation, Bombardier Aerospace, Morgan Motor Company Manufacturing and TWI Ltd.

The FSW-HFQ procedure developed was used to manufacture a prototype cross-member of the Morgan Aero 8 sports car. Replacing the main element of the cross-member with a FSW-HFQ blank reduced the weight of the assembly by 32%. Additionally, the new optimised design incorporated eight parts (instead of eleven), five of which can be pressed by HFQ in the same operation. This contributed to a significant reduction of the manufacturing and assembly lead times. A preliminary economic assessment shows that cost of manufacturing the new assembly is 37% lower, assuming an annual batch of 1000 units.

Upon the successful completion of this project, a prototype was placed on permanent display at TWI’s headquarters in Cambridge following an official unveiling attended by representatives from Morgan.

 

16 Jul

Yes, You Want One – An ‘Anti-Drain-Back-Valve’ in Your Oil Filter

[This treatise was taken from a number of sites on the internet (and then edited some) and seems to be good guidance relative to the need for the anti-drain-back-valve in your Morgan’s oil filter.  The question has come up a few times and we have tried to answer it, but haven’t really been convincing.  This seems to do it.  FYI, Race Cars with oil preheaters, etc., may have different requirements.  Mark]

Your Engine ‘oil filter’ is a very important component; it traps dirt and debris, preventing them from circulating throughout the engine.  This protects vital internal parts such as bearings, journals, and cylinder walls.

Another way the oil filter protects and helps lubricate the engine is using an anti-drain back-valve.  This valve is predominantly used within the spin-on versions of today’s oil filter and not a part of the older style of cartridge style filters (such as the original style 1950s – 1960s Plus 4s filters).  Although you may not have heard of it before or know what it does, this valve is extremely important.  Extensive engine damage can result if it isn’t working properly.

Oil filter design

The oil filter’s design might seem simple, but there is a lot more to an oil filter than you might think. Before delving into the details of what damage can be caused by a faulty anti-drain back valve, it’s a good idea to know how a car oil filter works. Typical oil filter components include the following:

  • Tapping or cover plate: This is the plate at the bottom of the filter.  It serves as an entry and exit point for oil. It also contains a threaded center hole, which allows the filter to attach to the engine.
  • Filter medium: Dirt and debris are trapped in the filter medium.  Typically, it is constructed from microscopic cellulose fibers along with synthetic fiber.  It is then saturated with resin for added strength.  The filter medium is folded into pleats to create a greater surface area.
  • Center steel tube: The center steel tube provides a structure for the filter.  It also allows filtered oil to return to the engine.
  • Relief valve: The relief valve opens when oil pressure is too great due to clogged filter media.  This allows unfiltered oil to exit through the center tube to prevent engine starvation.
  • End disc: Some oil filters use an end disc to prevent unfiltered oil from leaking into the center tube.  Others use a sealant instead.
  • Retainer: As the name implies, the retainer keeps the filter medium and end disc tight against the tapping plate.
  • Anti-drain back valve: The anti-drain-back-valve prevents oil from draining out of the filter when the engine is turned off.

Engine damage caused by a faulty anti-drain-back-valve

During an oil change, it’s recommended you put fresh oil in the new filter before installing it.  This is so oil is available to the engine as soon as it’s started.

The anti-drain-back-valve serves a purpose that’s like this oil change strategy.  Every time your engine is shut off, the valve keeps oil from draining out of the filter.  This allows the engine to receive oil immediately upon start up.

A faulty anti-drain-back-valve lets oil drain back into the engine.  This keeps oil from getting to the engine when it’s first started.  The result is engine wear and eventual failure from lack of lubrication.  Low-quality oil filters often have a poorly designed anti-drain-back-valve that doesn’t work properly.

Don’t settle for low-quality oil filters

The best way to avoid anti-drain back problems is to use a high-quality filter.  A good filter usually has a robust anti-drain-back-valve, designed to protect your Morgan’s engine.

15 Jul

Sad News – Paul Alfred Davidson 8/25/1951 – 7/12/2018

Celebration of LIfe for Paul A. Davidson, Hosted by Alexandra Petrenko

Paul Alfred Davidson 8/25/1951 – 7/12/2018

Parking:  Pumphrey’s has staff to assist with parking. They have a parking lot on site that can accommodate about 30 cars. If their lot is full, there is a parking lot just behind the building to the north and a parking garage 1/2 block to the north. Access to both the lot and garage are off Middleton Lane.  Pumphrey’s is less than a 5 minute walk from Bethesda Metro.

Please forward the invitation to those who knew and loved him.

It is so very unfortunate but also inevitable that members of the Morgan community move on.  Paul Davidson of MD, was a mainstay in the MCCDC Club for many years.  I knew him well, visited his house many times, and served as VP of the Club when he was President of the Club in 1990 or so.  I am sure there are others in MOGSouth that called him a friend, as well.

His blue 1953 Flat Rad Plus 4 was the darling at every meet.  I hope it finds a home with another enthusiast like Paul.

In addition to Morgans, Paul loved music and supported WPFW 89.3 FM, which had several programs he particularly enjoyed. Please consider donating to WPFW 89.3 FM on behalf of Paul.  http://www.wpfwfm.org/radio/

For those that knew Paul, remember the good times and raise a glass in his honor.

Cheers, Mark

 

 

13 Jul

Updates – 2018 MOGSouth Holiday Party – Now on St Simons Island GA – 1 Dec 2018

The 2018 MOGSouth Holiday Party details have finally come together.

The 2018 Holiday Party will be held at the St Simons Island King and Prince Beach and Golf Resort, on Saturday 1 Dec 2018. 

[Note:  We were trying to have the Holiday Party on Jekyll Island but there seems to be no availability.  A large insurance corporation is having their annual conference there and has the entire island booked.   As it turns out,  St Simons is actually better!  More to see and do!   Mark]

Although the Holiday Banquet is on Saturday evening, 1 December,  for even more fun, it is recommended you arrive on Friday 30 November.  There is a trolley tour scheduled for Saturday morning that gives you great views and lots of historic insight into St Simons Island.  This is not something you will want to miss.  The Trolley Tour is $20 per person.   FYI, this Trolley Bus has received numerous accolades, year after year.  We will collect the money as we get on the Trolley Bus.  Please bring cash or personal check to pay.  We cannot take credit cards.

Be advised, the trolley may not be able to handle our entire group in one trip, so if interested, you have to send an email to Mark Braunstein so he can put you on the trolley list.  First come, first served.   If you want to go with friends, make sure you let us know.

We have commited to fill at least one trolley bus which is scheduled to go out at 10:00 AM (hotel’s front door) and should we fill a second trolley bus, the second group will go out at 12:00 PM.  Who knows, things could change but this is the plan.  We will let you know if something changes.

The trolley isn’t the only thing to do on St Simons Island.   Among other things, there are museums, a lighthouse and the lovely Hofwyl-Broadfield Plantation.  Go to the St Simons Island Website to see all there is to do.

The weather in St Simons Island, during our visit, should be superb.  The temperature is moderate (High/Low °F) – 70°/ 53° and, on average, it’s the period of the lowest rain fall all year.  Anything can happen, but it’s well worth the risk.  Bring your Morgan!

Holiday Party Hotel Details: The full name of the hotel is The King and Prince Beach and Golf Resort. It ls located at 201 Arnold Rd., St Simons Island, GA 31522, 800-342-0212, www.kingand prince.com

Call to make reservations.   We have negotiated a group rate at the hotel so be sure to mention Morgan Car Club and/or MOGSOUTH when making your reservations.   You will have to call and reserve and pay for your rooms individually.   These room rates are as follows.

Standard Rooms at $139, Partial Ocean View at $154 and Ocean Front Rooms at $169, plus taxes and fees.   It is recommended that you use whatever discounts, AARP, Military, etc., you have.    The view of the ocean is superb!!

If you are coming to St Simons for the Holiday Party please send an email to Mark Braunstein so he can keep a total for the hotel.  The Hotel needs to know how many folks are coming so that they can order sufficient food.  That, and MOGSouth will have to pay for meals that aren’t eaten so please let Mark Braunstein know if you are coming or must cancel. 

The Holiday Banquet will be a buffet dinner, and will include a choice of Chef’s Garden Salad, a Holiday Waldorf Salad, Roasted Turkey, or Sunset Farms Queen of Dixie Smoked Ham.  The banquet is $41 per person plus tax.  Again, we will collect money at the door to the Banquet.  Please bring cash or personal check to pay.  We cannot take credit cards.

  • Side dishes include Buttery Whipped Potatoes, Candied Sweet Potatoes, Roasted Brussel Spouts in Pecan butter, and Green Bean Casserole.
  • Dinner Roles and Desserts (Pecan Pie, Pumpkin Pie, and Red Velvet Cake) will be offered as well.  Of course there will be Coffee and Tea available.
  • A Cash Bar will also be available prior to and during the Holiday Banquet.

In keeping with tradition there will be a MOGSouth Hospitality Room open at appropriate times during the weekend.  Tentatively it will be in the Wesley Cottage, but do check with the Hotel’s front desk when you check in to verify.

[Be advised that MOGSouth is subsidizing this event.  (In case you wondered where your dues went!) There may be cheaper budget hotels down the street that look appealing, however, if we don’t reach our targeted attendance at this hotel, we will have additional fees to pay and everyone else’s costs will go up.  Please don’t do it!   Mark]

Looking forward to seeing everyone!!!   Chuck and Karen Bernath

11 Jul

Updates – 2018 MOGSouth Fall Meet, Augusta GA, 14-16 Sep.

The MOGSouth Fall Meet will be in Augusta, GA Sep 14 – 16

The Meet Host Hotel is The Partridge Inn, 2110 Walton Way, Augusta GA 30904  (Tel. 706-737-8888)

The Partridge Inn is an historic southern style and quaint hotel, but now in the hands of Hilton and is efficient, clean and well-managed.  It has a roof-top bar that overlooks the city and balcony rooms that overlook the beautiful pool and lounging area.

We have negotiated superb Group rates for the rooms. This rate includes breakfast for either a single person or a couple in the room.

Standard Rooms are $139.00 per night, Suites are $149.00 and rooms with Balconies at $159.00.

Guests need to call the Partridge Inn directly (706-737-8888) for their reservations using the MOGSouth group name

These rooms will be held for MOGSouth until August 15 . . . so please make your reservations now to be guaranteed these great rates!

The Partridge Inn has also reserved secured, covered parking at no extra charge for our Morgans.

The Hospitality Room will be in the Partrirdge Inn’s  ‘Cigar Bar’ (not to worry it will be non smoking!) on the first floor.  It will be open to MOGSouth only, on both Friday and Saturday, 14/15 Sep from 2:30 PM until 10 PM.

In addition to the Partridge Inn’s own restaurant, there are a number of restaurants nearby.

  • Raes Coastal Café, 3208W. Wimbledon Dr. Augusta GA 30909 – 706-738-1313 (4 Miles)
  • Finch and Fifth, 379 Highland Ave., Augusta GA – 706-364-5300 (2 Miles)
  • Ephesus Restaurant, Mediterranean / Turkish, 3102 Washington Rd., Augusta GA  – 762-994-0180 (5 miles)
  • Whiskey Bar Kitchen, Japanese / Burgers, 1048 Broad St., Augusta GA 30901 – 706-814-6159 (3 miles)

We will have a group dinner at 6:30PM on Saturday evening at  Cucina 503, 502 Fury’s Ferry Road Suite 503, Augusta GA 30309 – 762-994-0142 (7.5 miles)

The Partridge Inn Shuttle is also available at no charge for those not wanting to drive out in the evening.  (You must go to the front desk and reserve a spot on the shuttle.)

If you are curious, go to the Hotel’s  website  The Partridge Inn and check out the photos of the Partridge Inn.

Come and luxuriate for a great weekend get together in Augusta!!!

Dorothy and Glenn Moore

10 Jul

Latest News – New Morgan Four Wheelers (https://justbritish.com/ – 4 July 2018)

A long-loved British sports car is finally returning to the US. Morgan Motor Company, in response to U.S. Morgan dealers unfulfilled demand for 4 wheeled Morgans and also the disappointing lack of progress in implementing the Replica Car Bill, is now addressing the issue proactively.

Last week Morgan Motor Company announced that they are prepared to manufacture a functional rolling chassis in both Roadster and Plus 4 variants, that can then be shipped to the US, using the specially constructed vehicle route to market.

It is fully appreciated that there has been a significant hiatus regarding supply of four-wheeled Morgan vehicles to the US. Additionally,  the proposed Replica Car Bill has stalled significantly during the last 2 years and is still without any clear steer on the outcome with regards to both timing and legislative requirements. We believe there is a huge pent-up demand for traditional Morgans in the U.S.

Morgan plans an initial build of 40 Roadsters and 40 Plus 4’s during the remainder of 2018.

Upon hearing the news in San Francisco, Bill Fink of Morgan Cars USA was too jubilant at the prospect of new cars to dwell about the low number of vehicles.

“We have long awaited the opportunity to provide our customers with classic Morgans again. After the days without new 4-wheeled cars started stretching into years, and all the time spent waiting for implementation of the Fast Act – this is a very happy turn of events.”

Immediately available models include the Morgan Plus 4 (base price MSRP $69,995) and the Roadster 3.7 (base price MSRP $79,995.)  Freight, options, taxes, and fees are additional.

With the suggestion that as few as 80 vehicles will be built to meet the demand, and factoring in the Morgan devotees on dealers’ wait lists, the available build dates will be filled quickly.

Contact the authorized dealers (MOGSouth Supporters are listed here) to voice your interest and get any questions answered.

 

04 Jul

On-board diagnostics (OBD) (Wikipedia and Morganatica)

On-board diagnostics (OBD) is an automotive term referring to a vehicle’s self-diagnostic and reporting capability. OBD systems give the vehicle owner or repair technician access to the status of the various vehicle subsystems. The amount of diagnostic information available via OBD has varied widely since its introduction in the early 1980s versions of on-board vehicle computers.  Early versions of OBD would simply illuminate a malfunction indicator light or “idiot light” if a problem was detected but would not provide any information as to the nature of the problem.

Modern OBD implementations use a standardized digital communications port to provide real-time data in addition to a standardized series of diagnostic trouble codes, or DTCs, which allow one to rapidly identify and remedy malfunctions within the vehicle.

[ODB implementations have been mandated in Europe since 2001 so it is believed that all Morgans since that date, e.g. late model Plus 8s, Roadsters and Aero 8, as well as the new ‘component’ Morgans expected in 2018 will have OBD capabilities.  Consumer level ODB readers are available just about everywhere and you can buy them to assist you in troubleshooting any faults.  Dedicated automotive repair facilities will most likely utilize more sophisticated ‘OEM-like’ ODB code readers.  Mark]

EOBD

The EOBD (European on board diagnostics) regulations are the European equivalent of OBD-II, and apply to all passenger cars first registered within EU member states since January 1, 2001.

The technical implementation of EOBD is essentially the same as OBD-II, with the same SAE J1962 diagnostic connector and signal protocols being used.

Each of the EOBD fault codes consists of five characters: a letter, followed by four numbers. The letter refers to the system being interrogated e.g. Pxxxx would refer to the powertrain system. The next character would be a 0 if complies to the EOBD standard. So it should look like P0xxx.

The next character would refer to the sub system.

  • P00xx – Fuel and air metering and auxiliary emission controls.
  • P01xx – Fuel and air metering.
  • P02xx – Fuel and air metering (injector circuit).
  • P03xx – Ignition system or misfire.
  • P04xx – Auxiliary emissions controls.
  • P05xx – Vehicle speed controls and idle control system.
  • P06xx – Computer output circuit.
  • P07xx – Transmission.
  • P08xx – Transmission.

List of OBD Fault Codes

P1000 OBD-II Monitor Testing Incomplete
P1001 KOER Test Cannot Be Completed
P1039 Vehicle Speed Signal Missing or Improper
P1051 Brake Switch Signal Missing or Improper
P1100 Mass Air Flow Sensor Intermittent
P1101 Mass Air Flow Sensor out of Self-Test Range
P1112 Intake Air Temperature Sensor Intermittent
P1116 Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor is out of Self-Test Range
P1117 Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor Intermittent
P1120 Throttle Position Sensor out of range
P1121 Throttle Position Sensor Inconsistent with Mass Air Flow Sensor
P1124 Throttle Position Sensor out of Self-Test Range
P1125 Throttle Position Sensor Intermittent
P1127 Heated Oxygen Sensor Heater not on During KOER Test
P1128 Heated Oxygen Sensor Signals reversed
P1129 Heated Oxygen Sensor Signals reversed
P1130 Lack of Upstream Heated Oxygen Sensor Switch – Adaptive Fuel Limit – Bank No. 1
P1131 Lack of Upstream Heated Oxygen Sensor Switch – Sensor Indicates Lean – Bank No. 1
P1132 Lack of Upstream Heated Oxygen Sensor Switch – Sensor Indicates Rich – Bank No. 1
P1135 Ignition Switch Signal Missing or Improper
P1137 Lack of Downstream Heated Oxygen Sensor Switch – Sensor Indicates Lean – Bank No. 1
P1138 Lack of Downstream Heated Oxygen Sensor Switch – Sensor Indicates Rich – Bank No. 1
P1150 Lack of Upstream Heated Oxygen Sensor Switch – Adaptive Fuel Limit – Bank No. 2
P1151 Lack of Upstream Heated Oxygen Sensor Switch – Sensor Indicates Lean – Bank No. 2
P1152 Lack of Upstream Heated Oxygen Sensor Switch – Sensor Indicates Rich – Bank No. 2
P1157 Lack of Downstream Heated Oxygen Sensor Switch – Sensor Indicates Lean – Bank No. 2
P1158 Lack of Downstream Heated Oxygen Sensor Switch – Sensor Indicates Rich – Bank No. 2
P1220 Series Throttle Control fault
P1224 Throttle Position Sensor B out of Self-Test Range
P1230 Open Power to Fuel Pump circuit
P1231 High Speed Fuel Pump Relay activated
P1232 Low Speed Fuel Pump Primary circuit failure
P1233 Fuel Pump Driver Module off-line
P1234 Fuel Pump Driver Module off-line
P1235 Fuel Pump Control out of range
P1236 Fuel Pump Control out of range
P1237 Fuel Pump Secondary circuit fault
P1238 Fuel Pump Secondary circuit fault
P1250 Lack of Power to FPRC Solenoid
P1260 Theft Detected – Engine Disabled
P1270 Engine RPM or Vehicle Speed Limiter Reached
P1288 Cylinder Head Temperature Sensor out of Self-Test Range
P1289 Cylinder Head Temperature Sensor Signal Greater Than Self-Test Range
P1290 Cylinder Head Temperature Sensor Signal Less Than Self-Test Range
P1299 Cylinder Head Temperature Sensor Detected Engine Overheating Condition
P1309 Misfire Detection Monitor not enabled
P1351 Ignition Diagnostic Monitor circuit Input fault
P1352 Ignition Coil A – Primary circuit fault
P1353 Ignition Coil B – Primary circuit fault
P1354 Ignition Coil C – Primary circuit fault
P1355 Ignition Coil D – Primary circuit fault
P1356 Loss of Ignition Diagnostic Module Input to PCM
P1358 Ignition Diagnostic Monitor Signal out of Self-Test Range
P1359 Spark Output circuit fault
P1364 Ignition Coil Primary circuit fault
P1380 VCT Solenoid Valve circuit Short or Open
P1381 Cam Timing Advance is excessive
P1383 Cam Timing Advance is excessive
P1390 Octane Adjust out of Self-Test Range
P1400 Differential Pressure Feedback Electronic Sensor circuit Low Voltage
P1401 Differential Pressure Feedback Electronic Sensor circuit High Voltage
P1403 Differential Pressure Feedback Electronic Sensor Hoses Reversed
P1405 Differential Pressure Feedback Electronic Sensor circuit Upstream Hose
P1406 Differential Pressure Feedback Electronic Sensor circuit Downstream Hose
P1407 EGR No Flow Detected
P1408 EGR Flow out of Self-Test Range
P1409? EGR Vacuum Regulator circuit malfunction
P1409? Electronic Vacuum Regulator Control circuit fault
P1410 EGR Barometric Pressure Sensor VREF Voltage
P1411 Secondary Air is not being diverted
P1413 Secondary Air Injection System Monitor circuit Low Voltage
P1414 Secondary Air Injection System Monitor circuit High Voltage
P1442 Secondary Air Injection System Monitor circuit High Voltage
P1443 Evaporative Emission Control System – Vacuum System – Purge Control Solenoid or Purge Control Valve fault
P1444 Purge Flow Sensor circuit Input Low
P1445 Purge Flow Sensor circuit Input High
P1450 Inability of Evaporative Emission Control System to Bleed Fuel Tank
P1451 EVAP Control System Canister Vent Solenoid Circuit Malfunction
P1452 Inability of Evaporative Emission Control System to Bleed Fuel Tank
P1455 Substantial Leak or Blockage in Evaporative Emission Control System
P1460 Wide Open Throttle Air Conditioning Cutoff circuit malfunction
P1461 Air Conditioning Pressure Sensor circuit Low Input
P1462 Air Conditioning Pressure Sensor circuit high Input
P1463 Air Conditioning Pressure Sensor Insufficient Pressure change
P1464 ACCS to PCM High During Self-Test
P1469 Low Air Conditioning Cycling Period
P1473 Fan Secondary High with Fans Off
P1474 Low Fan Control Primary circuit
P1479 High Fan Control Primary circuit
P1480 Fan Secondary Low with Low Fans On
P1481 Fan Secondary Low with High Fans On
P1483 Power to Cooling Fan Exceeded Normal Draw
P1484 Variable Load Control Module Pin 1 Open
P1500 Vehicle Speed Sensor Intermittent
P1501 Programmable Speedometer & Odometer Module/Vehicle Speed Sensor Intermittent circuit-failure
P1502 Invalid or Missing Vehicle Speed Message or Brake Data
P1504 Intake Air Control circuit malfunction
P1505 Idle Air Control System at Adaptive Clip
P1506 Idle Air Control Over Speed Error
P1507 Idle Air Control Under Speed Error
P1512 Intake Manifold Runner Control Stuck Closed
P1513 Intake Manifold Runner Control Stuck Closed
P1516 Intake Manifold Runner Control Input Error
P1517 Intake Manifold Runner Control Input Error
P1518 Intake Manifold Runner Control fault – Stuck Open
P1519? Intake Manifold Runner Control Stuck Open
P1520? Intake Manifold Runner Control circuit fault
P1519? Intake Manifold Runner Control fault – Stuck Closed
P1520? Intake Manifold Runner Control fault
P1530 Open or Short to A/C Compressor Clutch circuit
P1537 Intake Manifold Runner Control Stuck Open
P1538 Intake Manifold Runner Control Stuck Open
P1539 Power to A/C Compressor Clutch circuit Exceeded Normal Current Draw
P1549 Intake Manifold Temperature Valve Vacuum Actuator Connection
P1550 Power Steering Pressure Sensor out of Self-Test Range
P1605 PCM Keep Alive Memory Test Error
P1625 Voltage to Vehicle Load Control Module Fan circuit not detected
P1626 Voltage to Vehicle Load Control Module circuit not detected
P1650 Power Steering Pressure Switch out of Self-Test Range
P1651 Power Steering Pressure Switch Input fault
P1700 Transmission system problems
P1701 Reverse Engagement Error
P1702 Transmission system problems
P1703 Brake On/Off Switch out of Self-Test Range
P1704 Transmission system problems
P1705 Manual Lever Position Sensor out of Self-Test Range
P1709 Park or Neutral Position Switch out of Self-Test Range
P1710 Transmission system problems
P1711 Transmission Fluid Temperature Sensor out of Self-Test Range
P1713
thru
P172 Transmission system problems
P1729 4×4 Low Switch Error
P1740 Transmission system problems
P1741 Torque Converter Clutch Control Error
P1742 Torque Converter Clutch Solenoid Faulty
P1743 Torque Converter Clutch Solenoid Faulty
P1744 Torque Converter Clutch System Stuck in Off Position
P1745 Transmission system problems
P1746 Electronic Pressure Control Solenoid – Open circuit
P1747 Electronic Pressure Control Solenoid – Short circuit
P1749 Electronic Pressure Control Solenoid Failed Low
P1751 Shift Solenoid No. 1 Performance
P1754 Coast Clutch Solenoid circuit malfunction
P1756 Shift Solenoid No. 2 Performance
P1760 Transmission system problems
P1761 Shift Solenoid No. 3 Performance
P1762 Transmission system problems
P1767 Transmission system problems
P1780 Transmission Control Switch circuit is out of Self-Test Range
P1781 4×4 Low Switch is out of Self-Test Range
P1783 Transmission Over-Temperature Condition
P1784 Transmission system problems
P1785 Transmission system problems
P1786 Transmission system problems
P1787 Transmission system problems
P1788 Transmission system problems
P1789 Transmission system problems
P1900 Transmission system problems

[I haven’t personally verified that each of these codes exist or are as specified, so if you do find inconsistencies, please let me know.   Mark]