high altitude needles

[sculptart@aol.com]

Wolfgang, and all, Living in Colorado, I have installed the lean (AP designation) needles in the TC. Moss part No. 374-020. These replace the standard needle (ES designation), Moss part No. 474-080. I have driven the car using both sets of needles on some of our mountain passes, as high as 12,183 ft with no problems. Just out of curiosity I wanted to see the difference in carb settings. The lean needles are a better for all around high altitude use, better mileage and performance, although those of you visiting Colorado for the GOF in June will have no trouble in Durango, elevation 6523 ft. using the standard needle. I don't know about the "rich" needle...no personal data. The acceleration at higher elevations is "leisurely" at best, but we don't drive these cars for their high speed capabilities normally, right? Make sure your cooling system is in top shape as well. On Interstate 70 over Vail pass (10,600 ft) I usually slip the car in behind a large truck with interesting bumper stickers and enjoy the sights at a reasonable speed. My best to all, Ben, TC 4260

[MIKEFRAN@aol.com]

Peter Coming from Michigan the highest pass you will likely encounter will be Wolf Creek Pass at 10,850 feet. There will be others but all under 10,000 ft. Wolf Creek was on the route we used for the Ocean to Ocean in 1986. I don't recall any of the flatlanders having much difficulty crossing it. Our club (Rocky Mountain MG T-Register) set up a check point at the summit and awarded drivers with our 12,000 foot club dash plaques. I know they were 1150 ft. short but all 50 cars earned them. While in Colorado you can truly earn your spurs by climbing Pikes Peak at 14,110 ft. or Mt. Evans at 14,264 ft., the highest road in the U.S. My TC has done both, which is no big deal, except to say that I have done it, because they were there. The mountains are the fun part of your trip, however, since to get to them you must cross either Nebraska or Kansas and the eastern half of Colorado. I'm just glad to hear you are considering making the trip. We can virtually guarantee a good time in Durango, at least it won't be for lack of effort on our part as hosts. Mike Francks