Benz!

For years I've wanted to buy a Mercedes.  Why? German engineering, durability, same make as Colonel Klink's staff car, not sure, but I finally bought one.  

My uncle Len and aunt Evie decided to sell their '83 300D and avoid the leaky transmission and broken coil spring.  Dad gave me the lead and I bought the car.

Ready to roll!

On December 18th we rented a car trailer from U-Haul - $54 for 24 hours! My '93 Chevy Silverado pulled the trailer with ease thanks to V-8 power!!  Dad, patient as ever, waited for me as I ran around the house getting my stuff together.  We arrived at U-Haul 30 minutes late and waited for another 30 minutes to sign many forms, waive the extra insurance, etc, etc, etc!  I told the U-Haul guy this is just as much work as renting a car. He said it was more work since they typically rent to lower class people.  Was this a slam or a statement about their market?  Didn't care just wanted to get out of there!!  

Finally at 10 am southbound on Hwy 35 we crossed the Minnesota river then climbed out of the Minnesota river valley and headed past New Market, Farmington, Fairbault, Medford (outlet mall) and finally Owantonna.  No time to stop at Cabelas.  We arrived at 11:30 - too late for aunt Evie's donuts and coffee. Cousin Dan and I gave the 300D a healthy push as dad steered the car onto the trailer.  Then a chainfall and we pulled the Benz onto the trailer.  A few chains and straps and the 300D was locked and loaded.  Now time for lunch prepared by aunt Evie!!

Dad and cousin Dan

When dad, Kayla and I went to inspect the Mercedes a few weeks ago, we had a good time with uncle Len and aunt Evie. Since then, uncle Len has fallen and broken his hip. He had to crawl up his driveway for help.  It was a bad fall and it landed him in the intensive care section of the Mayo clinic.  He'd appreciate your prayers to be home for Christmas.  We miss you uncle Len!!

Aunt Evie made a huge spread of food for the hungry workers.  Hot dish, white bread with butter, coffee, milk, water, cottage cheese, Doritos, grapes, donuts, etc, etc, etc.  After the meal and conversation, dad and I hit the road.  It wasn't but an hour later and dad was feeding me Snicker bars, apples and water. Hence the name Lumpy.

Dad preparing snacks sent by mom!

The trailer worked well and the car made it home in about 2 hours.  We backed up to the garage, hooked the come-a-long to the 300D and used my Escort as an anchor.  For the final shove, dad and I pushed while Kayla steered the Mercedes off the trailer. Nice job Peanut!!!!

Can't shake this Mercedes!

My dad!!

Wow, thanks a million dad for helping me and for your constant display of love and patience. I wish I was as patient as you.  This is the fourth vehicle we dragged home together.  A '68 Ford Bronco from Ely in the late 70's.  I drove the Bronco (with minimal heat in November) and dad followed me in the Chrysler wagon. We had to stop every now and then to blow the rust out of the fuel filter.  A few years later we hauled a early 70's Jeep Cherokee back from Barron Wisconsin. I think my brother John sat in the Jeep while I was safe and warm in dad's Plymouth Valiant.  A few years ago dad and I hauled home a '60 Cadillac Sedan deVille. A huge land yacht that was slowly settling into the earth in Ottertail county.  Now, the Benz.  Whoa, I  own a Cadillac and a Mercedes!!!

You are an incredible Christ like example to us all.  I love you dad!!!  

The Benz has a leaky transmission. However since it hasn't ran for 5 years I will have to clean the fuel system before I can start it and then determine what the tranny problem is.  The tranny in my '51 Chevy pickup just took a dump and needs inspection.  Along with my Muncie 4-speed.  Sheesh (as Dave would say)!

Job complete!