283 fuel mileage

[Hog]

On the trip from Woodstock Ontario to Nashua New Hampshire for the 37th Annual International Eckler's Chevy Classic, the 283 4bbl "Powerpack" Powerglide 2 speed auto trans and 3.36 rear gears netted 16.75 mpg consuming 74.75 gallons of fuel through the Carter 4bbl carb while covering 1255 miles engine mileage is now at 77307 miles since the restoration Dad did way back in 1991. Mom said she cruised at roughly 65-70mph, with the 26.5" tire height on the 14" rim making for 2750-3000 cruise rpm (not factoring TC slippage).

Mom went along with a lady who also used to do the show circuit along with my Mom and Dad. Her husband recently passed away as well.

The "Southern Belle" (which was the cars CB radio call sign when the group would convoy across the US) did well and only used about 3/4's of a quart of oil.
The car had been in storage for 3 years and was given a quick wash and wax and shown for CCI judging. She scored 947 For her Silver Certificate (900-949 points in Silver, 95-969 is Gold and 970+ is Platinum.) While she hasn't scored Silvers for some time (since her 1st few shows in the early 90's) Mom had a great time. There were quite a few people that were asking "Where's John"? as they didn't know of Dad's passing in Aug. There were hugs/tears and condolences, but most of all she got to see some old friends. Because we all know, it's not all about the cars, it's the people we meet along the way.

Don't worry Dad, we're waiting on the judging sheets to come in the mail, then we'll get "Southern Belle" back up to snuff.

Some pics before leaving.