Prez Sez: Vern Dale-Johnson (vern_dj@msn.com)

How did you like that last issue? Thanks belong to our Editor, Sylvia Balfour – the photos came through great and the 11 x 17 format is a definite upgrade. I hope you noticed those two blank pages – just a small hint. Your thoughts, comments, stories are most welcome. Please send to Sylvia by email or snail mail. Big news in this issue is the new Aero 8. For those who haven’t followed the internet discussion, I’ve included several snippits of conversation. As well there is a page created from the Morgan Motor Company website, comments from Car and Driver’s website, and a copy of Jim Kenzie’s article that appears early in March in the Toronto Star (reprinted here with permission of Jim).

You will note a loose sheet in this Blurb – BCCI Long Distance Award Certification Form for 2000. If you are a long-distance driver and feel you will be eligible for this award (a handsome dash plaque), then please fill out the "Contest Commencement" part of the form and have it signed by a "club executive member" (you can forward these to me for signature as I know Morganeers always tell the truth, or, have them signed locally by someone other than your spouse – unless they have a different surname – who can verify the odometer reading.)

A warm Morgan welcome is in order to several new members who have joined us: Rod Wilkinson & Meg Angeuine Kleinberg Ontario, Shirley Zinman Scarborough Ontario, Judith & Carl Moore Plano Texas, Ian & Virginia Keppie Perthshire Scotland, and Chris Sinclare of Courtney British Columbia. Thanks for your memberships and look forward to one day meeting and enjoying Morganeering with you. Speaking about our more remote members, Serge Desjardins of Hudson Quebec (you may remember the publication of photos as he built his own Morgan 3-wheeler Family replica – he was at Stowe with the car last fall, took 2nd in class) called to ask if any of the Toronto contingent was planning on a run to Montreal for the May 27 "Old Port of Montreal Car Show". If you are, give Serge a call at 450-458-0047 and plan to spend the weekend based in Hudson, only a short drive from Montreal.

Thanks are in order to our major advertisers for 2000 – Melvyn Rutter Overseas Limited and Morgan Spares. You’ll note a new "business card" as well, from Ted of Alfa Instruments here in Toronto. As I have the dash apart for replacement of the aged mahogany plank, I refaced the center instrument / switch panel and cleaned everything. The result was the need to check in with Ted regarding the gaskets between the glass and instruments of the speedo, tach, and 4-instrument cluster so off we went to Ted. Thankfully he hasn’t changed! The shop is still total organized confusion – he knows where everything is and after a quick greeting we were back where we left off some 10 years ago when I was first into rebuilding OLBDII’s. The reason for this note is Smith’s pieces are getting scarce so…. If you want your gauges to last the next 40 years you might consider packing them off to Ted for a rebuild, cleanup, recalibration. Will be well worth the effort. While you are at it, ask him to make you new speedo and tach cables.

Our monthly HOG MOG pub days have attracted a consistent group. In February VDJ, Mary & Ray Shier, Glen Nigh (sans Rene), Peter Toma (sans Ella), Lynn & Fred Kuzyk, and Chris & Gayle Taylor ventured forth. For March, the same crowd minus the Kuzyk’s and Glen Nigh. More for April 2?? Don’t forget we will be celebrating "April Fool’s Day" one day late….

Our Toronto area events calendar is a bit "thin". Thanks to Ray & Mary Shier for pulling together the Y2K Queenston to Tobermory trek in late May. We then have a long hiatus until our summer Pig Out hosted by Al & Marlies Sands this year (looking at August 19th but this is to be confirmed). I’ve also started conversations with Peter McCowan regarding a return to the Mountain Springs Lodge for another Fall Weekend. Last year we were late getting our reservation booked and thus were pushed off to early October. This year we’ll look for a September weekend but… also must have an organizer as el Presidente will be touring with MOA III from Sept 5 to Oct 8. So… do we have a volunteer? If we do have a volunteer, said volunteer can also determine the location with the MSL as one choice. Please make your interest known soon so we can begin the process. Also, anyone who wants to fill the space from the end of May until August 19 with an "event" please let el Presidente know… no serious offers will be refused!

Chas. Wasser, Oh Mog sends the following sad note: "Earlier this week I received the sad news that Chris Rowe had died unexpectedly on Friday, March 3.  His wife Corinne sent me this information. Chris was former Editor of Miscellany and known throughout the Morgan world for his enthusiasm and dedication to Morgans and their enthusiasts.  He didn't let his advancing Parkinsons Disease diminish his enthusiasm or participation for the Marque.  In fact, he and Corinne were featured guests at the Oh Mog annual meet in Granville, Ohio last October, as well as our house guests for several days". 

"His death was particularly ironic for me, since earlier in that week, Chris and I had been emailing about his upcoming trip to the Geneva show to view the new Aero 8 model. Another larger irony is that in the February issue of Miscellany, there is a rememberance by Chris of his friendship with Arthur Neal who died suddenly in December.  Now it's our turn to remember our friendship with Chris".

"I'm sure his wife Corinne would appreciate receiving your thoughts and expressions of sympathy.  Her mailing address is: Mrs. Corinne Rowe, 13 Holland Pines, Bracknell, Berks. England, RG12 4UY My regards to everyone on this sad occasion". Chas Wasser Oh Mog Cincinnati

Members have asked for a listing of members names and phone numbers. Some years ago it was decided this list would not be made public. We have, over the past year, issued information on email addresses (new updated list enclosed, please email Vern DJ if your address is not included or is incorrect). As this has not caused any known complaints, we are prepared to issue a complete list of members names and their city. If you do not want your name on this list please advise Vern DJ or Sylvia B.

Coming events:

Y2K TREK UPDATE (May 19-22, 2000): 

There is considerable excitement developing for our first run of 2000 – the Queenston to Tobermory Y2K trek. Mary advises there are now some 12 cars registered, many from Toronto but including Janice and Earl Band from Michigan. If you have an interest but still have not made your arrangements, check in with Mary or Ray and call the hotels – Saturday May 20 at the Hockley  Highlands  Inn  and  Conference  Centre   just  east  of  Highway #10  off  the  Hockley  Valley  Road.  Website  is: www.hockleytrails.com Please  reserve  before  April  1 at 800-767-8071 addressing  your  enquiries  to Reservations under  the  Morgan  Sports  Car  Club  of  Canada. Accommodation on May 21 in Tobermory is at  the  Princess  Inn. Please  call  before  April 1 at 877 - 901 - 8282  anytime  after  10 am  and  speak  to  Shirley  or Carol. Refer to the MSCCC. On Monday May 22, you can either head back  down "The Bruce" or board the Chi-Chi-Maun for a Manitoulin  Island experience. Some websites to surf in your spare time:

http://www.niagara-on-the-lake.com http://www.brucetrail.org
http://www.escarpment.org

More details will be available as they happen.   

Mary & Ray Shier 905-877-1427 shier@bserv.com  


MOG South 25th Anniversary, April 14-16:  

For those who just can’t wait for May, check out Charlie King’s Mog South 25th Anniversary event coming up in Charleston April 14-16. Charlie and Carolyn King attended our last MSCCC Fall Weekend and it would be a fitting gesture to have some of the Canadian group return the visit. Headquarters for the meet will be The Hampton Inn Riverview (already sold-out). Charlie is the organizer of this event and can be reached at 843-762-4545 to steer you to alternate accommodation.

MCC DC MOG 30, June 30 – July 3:

 

MOG 30 organizaed by the Washington DC club will be at the Shawnee Inn on the Delaware River near East Stroudsburg on the Pennsylvania – New Jersey border (Northeast of Allentown, Southeast of Scranton). Events start Friday June 30 in the afternoon with a concours & rally on Saturday July 1, autocross & gymkana on Sunday July 2. For those staying over for Monday there will be a driving tour of the area or a canoe trip on the river. The Shawnee Inn was built in 1916 so offers not only fine accommodation but plenty of nostalgic charm. 65 rooms have been reserved under the MCC DC. Call early at 800-SHAWNEE. Rate is $110 + 16% tax per night. Room have also been reserved at the nearby Ramada Inn (East Stroudsburg) 800-2RAMADA also under the MCC DC name. Rate is $100 + tax and service. Rooms will be held until May 30, 2000.

As has been the custom for past MOG’s, the MCC DC has kindly offered a concession to Canadians attending – a reduced registration fee. As this year’s MOG is several hours closer to Toronto, Ottawa, and Montreal it would be great to see a significant Canadian "Rumble of Morgans" attend this year. For more info call Ed Geiger at 703-620-0659 or email Ed at efgea@aol.com

4th British Car Drivers Week, May 20 – 28, 2000:

Both opposing weekends are included this year for more driving time for those of you who are more likely to get your cars out and drive them during the weekends.  You will also notice the word "Drivers" has been added to the title. This marks the fourth annual British Car "Drivers" Week a worldwide event for all British marques with the intent that it will continue to grow in popularity as the years go by. This "awareness" week is intended for all British car owners to get their cars out on the roads in their locality, to have some fun with them, and promote them for all to see and appreciate

By getting our cars out on the roads at the same time during this week, we can create an awareness in our own part of the world that these unique, charming, fun cars are still around and doing well, thus hoping to create some new or renewed interests in them to help keep our hobby and related clubs and businesses going strong.

"Keith Cox Memorial MOA III – New Orleans to Nova Scotia":

An update on the "American" version of this run (where I am registered and still looking for co-drivers!) is enclosed in this issue of the Blurb. I do know that fellow MSCCC members Ken & Pat Miles from the Vancouver B.C. area will be making the run so we will at least have Canadian company. If you are interested in taking in all or part of the run as a co-driver, please email or call Vern at 416-530-4599 or email vern_dj@msn.com You don’t have to commit to the entire trip as long as you’re willing to make your own arrangements to catch the group en-route. I expect I’ll be leaving for the drive to New Orleans about Sept 3. Plan at this time is to take our Morgan on a trailer towed by the Isuzu so the convoy has the use of the trailer when and if needed during the run. This does assume we have at least two valid drivers licenses available at all times as I don’t plan on trailering OLBDII’s over the entire route!

Morgan clubs along the route are being contacted to invite them to meet up with the "rumble" or to join in activities. If you can offer assistance (in Canada, the route is Montreal through to Halifax) contact Steve Roake at the phone or email address listed below.

The UK group are organizing their own run along many of the same roads but a few days later. Earlier contact information: Morgans Over America III 2000, The Eastern Experience (organized by Richard & Anita Jordan, 8 Thirsk Gardens, Bletchley, Buchinghamshire MK3 5LH, 011-44-1773-521816) is still valid (Although VDJ has had no replies to his correspondence Perry Nuhn of the Gator Mog group has details. He can be reached at 561-546-1401).

On this side of the pond contact Kathy Tollworthy (925-462-6378, trikenut@aolcom), Steve Roake (415-864-2260, togetsteve@aol.com), or Elaine Fisher (925-930-6030), elainef@ibm.net or Elaine.fisher@jmmdhs.com .

 

Central Canada Morgan Events:

April 2 MSCCC Pub Brunch, Queens Head Inn, Brant St, Burlington 12 noon (VDJ 416-530-4599)

April 16 Ancaster British Car Flea Market, info call Ron 905-453-5333 or Don 905-765-1317

May 7 MSCCC Pub Brunch, Queens Head Inn, Brant St, Burlington 12 noon (VDJ 416-530-4599)

May 19-22 Y2K run from Queenston to Tobermory, Ray & Mary Shier (905-877-1427, shier@bserv.com )

June 18 Classics Against Cancer, Georgetown

June 30-July3 MOG 30, Shawnee Inn Penn, Ed Geiger 703-620-0659, efgea@aol.com

   

West Coast Events for MSCCC and MOG NW:

Mar 26 North Shore Spring Crawl, Black Bear Pub, North Vancouver, Larry Sharp 604-986-6621

April 29-30 Classic & Custom Motoring Show, Abbotsford Tradex Center, Larry Sharp 604-986-6621

May 20 Vancouver ABFM, Van Dusen Gardens, Mike Powley 604-261-0901

June 18 Father’s Day Picnic, Beacon Hill Park Victoria, 250-652-2159

Sept 2-4 ABFM Portland – 25th Anniversary of MOG Northwest, Bob Hauge 360-636-6015

 

Eastern Canada Events for MSCCC and GoMoG:


May 7 GoMoG Annual Spring Brunch, The Tea Room in Pakenham. Ed Burman 613-839-3140
May 27 Old Port of Montreal Car Show. Ed Burman 613-839-3140
May 28 Oxford Mills Car Show Anglican Church in Oxford. Ed Burman 613-839-3140
June 25 The Richmond Car Show. Ed Burman 613-839-3140
July 1 Canada Day Car Show, Arnprior. Ed Burman 613-839-3140

July 15 The Trembling Tremblant Run, Mt Tremblant. Ed Burman 613-839-3140
Aug 12 The Hurst Marina Boat and Car Show. Ed Burman 613-839-3140

Aug 27 Moggies on the Grass. Ed Burman 613-839-3140

Sept Quyon/Healey Cornroast naturally held in Quyon (date TBA). Ed Burman 613-839-3140
Oct 21 La  Runne de la Grosse Citrouille. Ed Burman 613-839-3140

 

Other Events of interest:

April 14-16 MOG South 25th Anniversary, Charlie King 843-762-4545

May 20-28 4th British Car Drivers Week (get out and exercise the beast!)

Aug 17-21 MOG 2000, Canterbury (U of Kent Campus plus trip to Le Touquet France) info tel: 01306 887046, fax: 01306 884562 or check the website http://www.itmc.net/mog2000

Sept 10 18th Annual Battle of the Brits, Sterling Heights Mich, Sue Snyder 810-9794875 snydley@home.com

Sept 9-Oct 8 Keith Cox Memorial Morgans Over America – New Orleans to Nova Scotia (see above)

Sept ? – Oct ? Morgans Over America III 2000, The Eastern Experience (see above)

Morgan Memorabilia:

Our run of millennium badges has sold out (if you have an interest please contact Vern DJ and you’ll be put on the wait list). We do have a good supply of "pins" available (these are mini-badges – high quality and only C$12 each!). Silver belt buckles (from Greg Kaufman or Vern Dale-Johnson) are quickly running out (we’ll put you on the wait list) at a price of $200 each. Also, don’t forget the MSCCC crest can be embroidered on clothing of your choice. Other regalia – the input has been tremendously non-existent however we are considering some high quality pewterware or crystal objects d’ art. Direct all input and enquiries to Vern Dale-Johnson.

The Texas Morgan Motor Car Club has a new "25th Anniversary" badge in production. This is available to non-members at US$50. Contact Jeff Smith – 972-596-8664, smithmog@ix.netcom.com , 2720 Wexford, Plano Texas 75093.

 

 

 

Notes from the East: Ed Burman (elburman@cyberus.ca)

Hard to imagine but it has been almost 3 years since purchasing Angus my '33 Three Wheeler Super Sport. Peter George once said that, "Restoration is not the act of taking something apart but rather the art of putting something together" and it is with a marked degree of relief and satisfaction that I can now say that Angus is going back together.  From this experience with Angus I would also like to add a codicil to Peter George's statement on restoration. "Anything taken apart has to be disassembled in such a manner to ensure that the re-assembly technique is obvious". 

This has been a very productive fall and winter.  Last September Cathy and I attended the Annual General Meeting of the Three Wheeler Club in Malvern England and not only did we have a grand time but we also came home with a new tubular chassis front cross member for Angus.  The fore/aft tubes, torque tube and new front suspension springs, sliders and kingpins have been fitted to the chassis and all that remains to complete the chassis is the forming of the diagonal stiffening brace for the upper and lower arms. This brace should be fitted by the end of next week.

The new wooden tub is all but complete except for the attachment of the battery and toolboxes.  These two items are made but awaiting final fitting of the metal body before being attached.  The metal body is being fitted to the wooden tub as we speak and it is anticipated that the body will be painted by mid February.  It is my intention to have the three metal body components painted inside as loose panels and then assemble all together for final painting.
 

The engine is down at the local engine shop having the top half assembled.  The wheel cylinders have been rebuilt and a new master
purchased.  A gentleman in Woodstock rebuilt the carb and yesterday I received the starter in the mail.  I am too old to crank over the engine on a hot day. It is my intention to significantly modify the electrics.  The starter is 12 volt and the car is 6 volt.  So simply put I will have two different voltages in the Old Lad. I will retain the look of the old dash instruments but will have a few necessary switches tucked up out of sight. It should be a pleasant change not having to resolve difficult problems. 

One problem that was a mind breaker was devising a method to bore through 3 different layers of wood to be able to install the
steering column. Naturally this boring job had to be in line and at the proper angle.  Enough said.  The last comment Vern is just, "Keep your goggles ready for a ride in Angus!" Best Regards, Greg Kaufman.

 

Notes from the West: Ron Theroux (ronsmog@home.com)

Vern ...... sorry we have not responded to a number of questions from you, nor have we thanked you for the Morgan newsletters.   Yes we have an excuse!!!!  As well membership chq. is in the mail to Ms Beer, just found the un-posted letter on my desk. 

Now the excuse.... NO STRUCTURAL DAMAGE TO THE HOUSE!!!!!! JUST SMOKE !!!! ........ MORGAN  OK!!!!! ....with a good wash, had been covered with a car cover.   Oh yes, we had my sons TR7  go up in smoke in the garage......electrical under the hood .......and man are we LUCKY... We found it when the furnace went on in the AM bringing smoke from the garage to the house..   The FIRE WAS OUT by this time, but the garage and contents were covered and penetrated with ash and smoke.  Sticky burnt rubber, plastic and paint. Tools on the walls and all of the tool chests had to be washed and treated to remove rust. Smoke alarm yes...but some boozo took the battery out when he was doing some welding.   The fire inspector was amazed at the air seal we had on the garage doors, lack of air and fuel put the fire out... Had we had a window to blow out, or had an alarm gone off and I opened a door it would have been a sadder story...... All S/B back to normal this weekend.

 

Pat & Ken Mikes are doing MOA lll, as well as Marv Coulthard from Saltspring and Bill Buttons of Seattle. We  will join the tour at Plattsburg NY and run with the group to Yarmouth. We would like to see PEI so will swing back up north from there. We have not fully planned our Canada trek yet, but hope to be in Kingston before Labour Day giving us a chance to see Ontario better. Regards Ron T.

 

Ron…. Wow!  Yes, luck.... but too bad re the TR7.  Hate to see anything go up in smoke.  Must be the reason I have a cut-off switch on OLBDII’s battery (and use it religiously).  A must for all toys, I would say.

 

Glad to hear you will be partaking in part of the run.  I'm looking forward to the company of the Miles.  Also will be good to get to know Marv Coultard and Bill Buttons.  I'm still hoping to have at least one co-driver from Toronto so we can use the Isuzu as a support vehicle but so far.... no takers.  Oh well, if not I'll be driving the distance in OLBDII's.

 

Right now the Mog is in pieces - dash out for a new piece of wood, Burman box has been removed and most of the Gemmer in place (TR7 shaft being lengthened and a universal coming from Moss to complete the conversion). Hoping to be on the road by mid April.  Regards Vern

 

For Sale / Morgans Wanted:

1970 4/4, 2 seater, 43000 miles, BRG.  Older restoration, engine rebuilt in the past 5000 miles. Very good condition, full wood dash and door panels, wire wheels, lots of Mog bits (mirrors, lights, badge bar). Cdn$28,000. Photos available. Call Brian Wallace (604) 534-7651, wallace@istar.ca

58 Morgan, previous owner replaced Ford 105E with Cortina 1600 GT c/w Weber downdraft, transmission and dif are original. Sound basic car with no frills. Stainless exhaust, Americanized electricals, no bumpers or side curtains. Body & frame sound, true mileage unknown, driven summers and stored in a indoor heated garage.  Located in Elliot Lake Ontario (Northwest of Sudbury).  Asking $15,000, offers?  Contact Paul Fuller 705-461-9080 pfuller@canada.com

1977 Morgan 4/4 Blue with red interior, only 11,000 original miles, one owner car $40,000Cdn.  $26,500 US Phone Toronto (416) 675-0220 or Toll Free 1-800-265-4187 email: bramclas@idirect.com

 

Vern…. Have received email from places such as Argentina & France. Enclosed are my replies. Cheers,
Fred Kuzyk Web Master

From: remi.chris

Sent: Sunday, January 30, 2000 3:22 PM

Subject: I sell my new Morgan

Hello I want to sell my new MORGAN 4/4 , 200 miles, January 2000, Royal Ivory options large body..... It’s better for me if you can write in French. Thank you. Sincerely yours, Chris Remi

Bonjour, je vois de votre email address que vous habitez en France. Mon français n'est pas très bon, ainsi j'utilise un programme de traduction par ordinateur. Nous n'avons aucun membre en France mais notre éditeur de bulletin connaît peu de gens dans votre pays. Vous pouvez joindre le site Web " international " de voitures de sport de Morgan (informations de poteau de http://mycomm.excite.com/mycomm/browse.asp?cid=.4g3TS2kkNzU)& sur votre voiture là vous-même en français. Vous pourriez également souhaiter visiter certains des sites énumérés à ma page de lien ("Links") au site de Web de MSCCC (http://clubs.hemmings.com/msccc /). là êtes quelques sites où vous pouvez également énumérer votre voiture à vendre. À la votre, Fred Kuzyk

Hello….. I see from your email address that you live in France. My French is not very good, so I'm using a computer translation program. We don't have any members in France but our Newsletter Editor knows a few people in your country. You can join the "Morgan Sports Cars International" web site (http://mycomm.excite.com/mycomm/browse.asp?cid=.4g3TS2kkNzU)

& post information about your car there yourself in French.  You might also wish to visit some of the sites listed on my Link Page at the MSCCC web site. (http://clubs.hemmings.com/msccc/). There are some sites where you can also list your car for sale. Cheers, Fred Kuzyk Web Master

(Note Remi has posted his car on the web. New Morgan 4/4, 1.8 litre 121 BHP . Wide-body with newer enlarged cockpit. Wire-wheels, 195/60 VR15 rubber. Galvanized chassis, etc, etc…. Royal Ivory. Delivery kms (450) only. Asking US$50,000. Will drive to French port of your choice and supervise placement in a container. You pay the shipping. Remi Cornier, 110 Avenue du General Leclerc, 87100 LIMOGES, France. Phone 00 33 05 55 37 66 78, fax 00 33 05 55 38 18 78, remi.chris@wanadoo.fr )

 

Notes from the Web:

From: Guillermo R. Pey <juntaspey@coopenet.com.ar>
To: <fkuzyk@cgocable.net>
Sent: Sunday, January 30, 2000 10:01 PM
Subject: Consulta

Hola a todos!! Bueno como se dan cuenta yo conozco muy poco el ingles. Por lo que les pido disculpas, al no poderles escribir en ingles. Bueno mi pregunta es sobre los autos de cuatro ruedas que han fabricado. ¿Cuantos modelos fabricaron? ¿Que características tienen? ¿Alguno de ellos tiene carrocería de fibra de vidrio? Desde ya que me será muy útil cualquier información que me puedan dar. Espero muy intrigado su respuesta Atentamente. Guillermo Rafael Pey

En Ingles:
Hello to all! Good as they realize I know ingles very little. Reason why I request excuses to them, when not being able to them to write in ingles. Good my question is on the cars of four wheels that have made. Whichever models made? That characteristic they have? Some of them has fiber glass body? From since any information will be to me very useful that can give me. I hope very intrigued its answer. Kindly, Guillermo Rafael Pey


Senor, No hablo español muy bien. Sus preguntas se refieren a los 4 coches de los deportes de Morgan de la rueda? Tiene sido 4 modelos hechos: el 4/4, +4, +8, y el +4+. Los +8 es los más costosos, con un motor V8. Los +4 es los más baratos, con un motor de 4 cilindros. El +4+ es el único Morgan se ha hecho con el cristal de la fibra y el único con una tapa dura. Es el más raro. Los otros coches se hacen de la madera, del acero y del aluminio. Sugiero que usted lea " historia la paginación de los coches " ("History Of The Car" Page) en mi Web site. El direccionamiento es:
http://clubs.hemmings.com/msccc/

Usted puede traducir el texto a español usando programas sobre el Internet, tal como traductor de Alta Vista en: http://babelfish.altavista.digital.com / le agradecen por sus aclamaciones del mensaje,

En Ingles:
Senor….. I do not speak Spanish very well. Your questions concern the 4 wheel Morgan sports cars? There have been 4 models made: the 4/4, +4, +8, & the +4+. The +8 is the most expensive, with a V8 motor. The +4 is the cheapest, with a 4 cylinder motor. The +4+ is the only Morgan has been made with fibre glass & the only one with a hard top. It is the rarest one. The other cars are made of wood, steel & aluminum. I suggest you read the "History Of The Cars" Page at my web site. The address is: You can translate the text into Spanish by using programs on the internet, such as Alta Vista translator at: http://babelfish.altavista.digital.com/ Thank you for your message. Cheers, Fred Kuzyk Web Master



---------------------------


Web-talk surrounding the unveiling of the new Morgan Aero 8 at the Geneva Motor Show:

 

To: <morgans@autox.team.net>
Sent: Tuesday, February 29, 2000 10:41 AM
Subject: new Morgan Aero 8

"I think I've seen enough . . . .argh!  I'll repost after I've had another cup of coffee to calm down . . ." Reactionarily yours, Craig Seibert

"I came in from unlocking Matilda's  gear box from reverse (need info on rebuilding a Ford trany) because the Boyles had called to see if we were looking at the Morgan site.  Brandy in tea would be appropriate.  No, Tequilla straight." Harris

"Indeed! I like it - A thoroughly modern Moggie! What's the betting the waiting list in UK stretches out to ten years? How much? Now will it blow the doors off of a updated 911?! If not....  Tech specs please chaps!"

"I like the car back as far as the windscreen, since it looks like a hot-rodded Bugatti Atlantique. Unfortunately, Morgan have insisted that the car is capable of carrying two sets of golf clubs, and thus lumbered it with an overweight rump." Graeme

"The pix on the Morgan works site don't show too much of the car. Wonder why? I didn't see the front to view the headlights you mentioned. When I was at the Earls Court show in London last October, I had a long look at the new TVR line. Compared to the Morgan, these cars are amazing! Two year wait and not available in the USA. But if that small company can redesign their cars into really fantastic styles (coupe and roadster versions), why can't Malvern come out with something thrilling? I will stick with my 63 +4 roadster and be glad I have a "classic"" Stuart J. Ross

"Stuart, it's a bit hard to see on my computer screen, but at the bottom of the page featuring the "Aero" there are a number of circles.  Click on them to get pictures of the front, rear, rear with top (hood) up, interior, and chassis. As to the design of the Morgan vs. that of the TVR, I suspect Morgan has to stay within a design envelope and design something that looks as close as the current Morgan. TVR always was a more modern design and I suspect they have more latitude.  Just a guess.  It does beg the question why a new design was needed in the first place.  Possibly because new components could not be fitted within the existing package or to meet new government requirements? BTW, I think "Aero" is a nice choice of name.  Was there not an earlier Morgan called the Aero?  Three-wheeled, perhaps?" Chuck Vandergraaf

Engine: V8 4398cc BMW, 430nm torque, 286 bhp/ tonne; Max speed: 160mph; 0-62mph: under 5.0 secs.

  • Transmission: 6 speed

    Steering: Morgan power rack with variable assistance centre point steering

    Suspension: Front -- Independent- unique long cantilever upper arm with lower wishbone and inboard Eibach coil springs over Koni shock absorbers. Rear -- Independent long traverse wishbones with cantilever mounted, fully floating inboard Eibach coil springs over Koni shocks. Anti rollbars -- NONE (yes NONE). Brakes: AP Vented Disks 4 pot at front and 2 at rear.

    •

    Drag co-efficient: (??? on a Morgan) 0.39
    Weight: 1000kg
    Wheels: 5 spoke OZ with Dunlop 225/40 ZR18 foam filled run flat tyres with pressure sensors with internal audible low pressure warning
    Dimensions:             Aero 8                  +8
             length:         4089mm                  3960
             width:          1753mm                  1630
             height:         1092mm                  1290
    (The +8 figures are so you can gauge the size of it in relation to a current +8 it is 200mm lower!!!!)

    "Hope this wets the appetite any questions email me. Cheers" Andy Bleasdale

    "I was afraid of that: overweight; underpowered (only 5.0 to 60! Mine only just doesn't manage that (5.3);  Coeff of Drag??!! Sacrilege!! Kraut Engine?? Who won the Battle of Britain then, eh?? Double sacrilege!! Golf bags?!?! Ye Gods, Mogs' have gone to the Dogs!! IRS!! Does that mean less frequent dental visits??!! If so, good on ya" Charles!

    "Appears to be one of those cars that you must see in the flesh...er, metal... to appreciate. I'm intrigued, is probably the best I can say at this point! But am reserving judgement... From looking at the uncovered mechanicals picture on the works site – is there no longer any wood????!!!!" Dan DiBiase

    "Hi Chuck, and there's more…… Electric Windows!!!!! Heated if you don't mind!!!!! Along with the heated front and REAR Glass. Will it never end? Cheers" Andy

    "I was sent specs in the post this am. What I failed to mention was:
           £49950 for the car
           £1500 for leather
           £1250 for Air conditioning
           £380 for cruise control
           £1250 for satellite navigation Cheers" Andy

    "I would much like to hear what Willie Lamb has to say about the costs of federalization. It seems to me that a new car, designed to meet all upcoming European regs, should have relatively little trouble meeting US regs... or am I wildly off the mark? Also, it would seem strange to me that Morgan (admittedly NOT trying to CATER to the US market) would have chosen to introduce design features that would make it extremely difficult to comply with US regs. I'll certainly buy "somewhere upwards of $80,000 US", but the where could be quite wide..." Giampiero Pecelli

    "Hello, G.P. Your assumptions are likely "on the mark". It is refreshing to me that someone out there is listening.

    Right now, on the current North American Spec Plus 8, considerable work must take place over here on the cars to fit side intrusion beams, brace the sides of the tub where the door latch and hinges are attached, and fit BMW-sourced bumper shocks to structures on the chassis already mounted at the Works.

    There is also short cycle E.P.A. testing to be done in Ann Arbor to verify the emissions paperwork supplied by the manufacturer on cars sold in the US with the same engine. Much depends on the cooperation of BMW.

    The crash testing will have been done for EC approval. There is an enormous amount of Federal paperwork. Both U.S. Agents have manufacturer status with the D.O.T. or little of this would even be possible.

    The P-8000 has been Charles Morgan's "baby" from the start and I can recall him saying two years ago that this car was not a replacement of the current range, but was aimed at a new market while elements of the car could be incorporated in the existing range as regulations in the future might require. CM has always intended that the Aero 8 be sold here in quantity. MMC would never have made the huge investment in air bag technology for the current NAS Plus 8 were it not the intention of MMC to sell them in quantity here and elsewhere.
    I am not familiar with all the vagaries of EC 2003 Regulations, but as you say, a good many may apply here or even exceed Federal Regulations. Based upon all the unseen trials and tribulations, I would anticipate seeing the first NAS Aero 8 hit the streets around January, 2002 (at about the same time as the KV-6 equipped Land Rover Freelander and BMW's Mini Cooper & Cooper "S", which also require an additional year to introduce as NAS variants).

    Your pricing is a good guess at $80,000 U.S. plus options. The average car will likely be $85,000 - $90,000 "out the door".

    As I said before, the only question in my mind from the photos concerns the manner in which the Federal 2 1/2 MPH bumper standard has been addressed. It appears that the metal wings are too close to both the front and rear to meet the dollar amount of damage specified in this standard since the mid-point of this structure must be ~ 18" high and the supporting structure beneath must also extend ~ 1 1/2" above and below that mid-point under some sort of "plastic" covering... and where/ how does one fit a  2" wider number plate if the mesh in the front spoiler is protecting oil coolers or radiators which need the air flow?" Willie

    Hi Folks. I was in Geneva this weekend, and one thing is for sure - you have to see it too believe it! I'm quite a traditionalist myself, but the Aero8 was sensational. I was very well greeted at the stand, and took a lot of pictures and spoke to the people there for several hours. The pictures generally do not give the car credit!! (and the showcar is lowered as well....suppose Charles wants it to look even fiercer...) There was quite a crowd at the stand, and I saw more than one hungry look, and not only from male dreamers...

    There was a +8 at the stand too, but it didn't get much attention, I'm afraid. Seen together with the new car, I can understand why.

    My emotions are mixed about this. As the president of a Morgan club, I'm concerned about what kind of people will buy this car, and what it might do to the club. I think we have to live with the fact that a lot of people who aren't really Morgan-drivers as we know them ( and want them to be) will buy this car. Many of them probably won't join the club either. For a lot of the traditionalists it's probably way out of reach....

    On the other hand; the factory should benefit greatly from this, and that's very important too. I think Charles and the team at the Works has done a great job.

    Happy Morganeering, Bjørn Schage
    President Of The Norwegian Morgan Club ( FjordMog)
    62  +4 4-str, 69 +8 (no Aero8....not even on the horizon)

    I was saddened to hear that Chris Rowe passed away last week.  I'd first met him and his lovely family way back in '82 at a Morgan camp site in Holland. A few years later he and his new Granny Smith green Morgan 4 str took my best friend and I on a gimmick rallye at
    one of Melvyn Rutter's parties.  Our team even won, much to the shock of the assembled masses. Thanks to the internet we'd been able to keep in touch pretty regularly.  I shall always fondly remember him as a Mog-Man and the editor of Miscellany for many years.  The world of Morgan will miss him terribly. Kathi Hoffman '66 4/4

    -----------------------------

    Hello fellow car enthusiast……. I am writing on behalf of the Willistead Classic and Antique Car Show.  One of Canada's premier concours d'elegance type shows.  Our show is located on the grounds of the historic Willistead Manor in Windsor, ON (just accross the river from Detroit, MI) and is modeled after the Meadowbrook Concours d'Elegance.  Vehicles exhibited range from the early brass era to special interest vehicles up to 1973 in vintage.  Plans are currently underway for the 2000 edition of our show which will take place on August 27.  Our feature marque this year is Chrysler.  I would like to take this opportunity to extend an invitation to any of your members who may wish to take part in this prestigious event.  Participation is strictly by invitation only.  Entry fee is $15 which goes towards the restoration and preservation of the manor house.  If anyone requires more information or would like to have their vehicle considered for an invitation you can have them contact me. Yours in motoring,

    Rod Larson 829 Villaire Ave Windsor, ON N8S 2J3 (519) 944-8185 rlarson@wincom.net

    ---------------------------

    Hello….. Please pardon the intrusion. We wanted to let you know about an event called Cars4Kids. The name really say's it all - it's a car show, swap meet & flea market with proceeds to benefit children via the Make-A-Wish Foundation of Suffolk County and Make-A-Wish of Metro New York.

    Seven different car clubs have come together to host this on June 11th.   The location will be the Brookhaven/Calabro Airport in Shirley New York.   All types of cars and motorcycles are welcomed.  Please take a second and visit their web site at: http://members.aol.com/corvetteli/crs4kds1.html Cars4Kids Main and take a look around.

    We'll ask you to do one other favor for us;  would you be kind enough to forward this e-mail to any of your friends who might be interested? On behalf of the kids - thank you.

    ---------------------------

    Hello Morgan Sports Car Club of Canada. Hope to find you and your rides warm and cozy! Please feel free to post your next show(s) or event(s) on our events page at www.motorheadcity.com . This service is free. MotorHeadCity.com is the webs oldest motor related site on the web, with over 80,000 visits per month world wide. Our new reminder system emails potential show clients days or weeks ahead of your event. Thanks For Your Time, larrys@motorheadcity.com


  • THE 17 CARDINAL RULES OF DRIVING IN Pennsylvania:
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    The following funny if from Geoff Wheatley, MSCCC member and new owner of the Kuzyk’s 4/4:

     

     

     

    Car and Driver reported: "Perhaps the most momentous unveiling was that of the first new Morgan in about a half-century, the Aero 8. Billed as the world’s first all-aluminum coach-built car, this open 160 mph two-seater is based on the factory’s GT2 racecar, and powered by a 282 horsepower BMW 4.4 liter V8. Weighing in at just over 2200 pounds, the Aero 8 boasts one of the best power-to-weight ratios of any sports car."

    "Canadian aluminum giant Alcoa produces the Morgan Aero 8 chassis, to which an all-independent suspension and a Morgan-traditional ash-framed aluminum body are mounted. Production begins in July 2000, with 200 units to be produced in the first year". (And….. to think Morgan’s can’t be imported into Canada!!!)

    The Daily Telegraph

    Saturday March 4, 2000

    The Aero 8 is Morgan’s first all-new car for 64 years. But can the Malvern company successfully mix tradition with technology? Andrew English reports….