I'm back in Seattle for the time being and I've been avidly searching for a place for me and my car to live. Explaining to possible landlords why I need a large parking space has made for some interesting conversations. When people seem interested, I go into full Barbie-car-gaga mode and tell them everything. When they don't seem to understand what the word "hearse" even means, I tend to compare it to the length of a full-size SUV or utility van. Although sailing is a popular past-time here, if I said "land-yacht" I don't think they'd get the joke.
Per usual, the car isn't done, but it's close, as you can see in the
new pictures Frank took for me. I'm still waiting for pictures of the back door with its expected TV and enclosure. I have a feeling that might be part of the reason it's taking even longer, even though the car was wired with the TV in mind.
The finished divider looks exactly like I expected, but I can't say the same for its execution. Frank had to outsource its installation, and when he got it back he found a bolt rammed through one of the fuses so there was no electricity in the car. They had to take the whole thing apart, including all the panels and seats, which set us back considerably. I was hoping for a little more team-playing, particularly in this exercise, but I guess it's no different from any other project.
Frank also needed more time to pull the back seats out an extra couple of inches. They were flat against the wall for awhile, which wasn't very comfortable. I'm really looking forward to experiencing the comfort for myself in the near future. I'll be the first to admit the raised floor in the back half of the rear cabin is already kind of weird. This will be a car for show more than anything, but since I'll have passengers for short distances, the consideration is very nice.
The last major item of business is getting the alarm installed. I had asked Allen to help find me something, but since I haven't been physically around to lean on anyone, things are getting done slowly on that end as well.
Luckily, I've had recent success discussing it with Arbey, the guy who has been and will be doing most of the stereo alarm work. He said he ordered me a Viper alarm system with a two-way remote. He seems to understand the style of the car and what I'm going for, so he suggested I get the pink one. Since the electricity was cut and Frank had to rewire everything himself, it's probably going to take Arbey a few days to reorient himself with what's going on there in order to install the alarm.
Meanwhile, I'm trying to find places here and along the way up from LA who might be able to make decals for the outside. I really don't feel like spending extra time in LA if I can have someone do it here.
Anyway, here's a snapshot of the back door and seat. I can't wait to get a chance to use them! (To transport passengers, obviously. What were you thinking??)
