| Our First Drive [message #296143] |
Wed, 24 February 2016 22:11  |
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pjburt
Messages: 436
Registered: February 2016
Location: Fresno, California
Karma:
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Senior Member |
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Patti and I went from Fresno to Applied GMC (169 mi) to pickup our new to us '73 customized Canyon Land. We rented a one-way car so both of us could experience the maiden voyage in our coach. By the time we did the paperwork, dropped off the car, talked for a while with another GMC owner, (another story) it was 3:30 PM.
Now those familiar with the Bay Area traffic know it is always busy, but, rush hour starts about 3:00 and no matter which direction you go toward the Central Valley it will be busy. I had decided it would be to our benefit to stay on multi-lane roads (Freeways) which meant North (I-680) then East through Livermoore (I-580) to the I-5 South, 152 to the 99 South.
I use Google Maps on my phone for navigation.
Patti decided the female voice is Lulu.
So... Lulu took us through a plethora of surface streets to get to the I-680. When I got the I-680 I turned Lulu off. Traffic immediately began to move about 30mph or less. This continued onto the I-580 East almost all the way through Livermoore. (45 min - an hour??) It was definitely interesting, especially when Patti had to remind me how quickly we were getting home.
Turning on Lulu again.
Lulu found an alternate route that will be 50 mins. faster than taking the I-580 hill out of Livermoore to the I-5.
I'll take it.
Surface streets again to Patterson Pass Rd. but it is still supposed to be 50 mins. faster than the Interstate. Approx 20 miles.
Note: You don't want to set through the one stop sign on Patterson Pass Road during rush hour. But, it was supposed to be 50 mins. faster.
After the syop sign - one lane road with 2 way traffic. A constant line of cars and we are the only MH in sight. Lots of sharp turns up and down. At the crest all I could see is sky. Patti decided it was time to see how strong the Flexsteel arm rests were. All the way down. I'm glad it wasn't my arm. Of course, the down hill side was basically on her side and steep.
Down was rather harrowing but, to make a long story slightly shorter, it took us 2.5 hours to get to the I-580 turn-off to the I-5 from Applied GMC. Still 2 hours to go according to Lulu. The entire trip should have taken us less than 3 hours.
Overall, I'm happy with the way the coach performed. There are some issues but I believe they will be minor when we get them sorted out. I knew there would be things to do so I'm not discouraged.
Lots to do so see you later.
Jerry
Jerry Burt Fresno, CA.
73 Gmc 26' Canyon Lands
Members: FMCA - GMCMI - GMCWS
A truly happy person is one who can enjoy the scenery on a detour.
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