Luxembourg 2002

Once again, an excellent event which had something for everyone, very well organised, and appreciated by all present. Numbers were up on last year, although sadly André and Carinne had to miss due to other commitments, Hugo Holder had to retire the prototype Sabra a few days before with camshaft problems, and Chris Gallagher needed some recovery time after taking the ex-Don Pither red Sabre six to 45th overall in the classic marathon rally. We hope to see them all next year. Thanks also to Jef Neefs for a very quick proof-reading service.

I decided to use the trip for an experiment. I have always been sceptical of "snake oils", not because I know they don't work, but because it is so difficult to prove that they are actually making a difference. Here was a golden oppurtunity to try out one of these oil additives that claims to give increased miles to the gallon by reducing the friction losses and hence making the engine more efficient. I decided to drive the outward leg from England to Luxembourg without the additive, add it to the oil and drive around the countryside to give it a good chance to mix up and get spread around everywhere, and then drive back to England, keeping a record of how much petrol was put in at each stop and what the mileage was.

I was able to indulge in this because I have recently fitted a stainless fuel tank to the car, and also replaced the rubber hose between the filer cap and tank so that it is now possible to fill the Sabre to the brim without leaving an embarrassing puddle behind.

I must also thank Robert Brandy for his kindness and help in sorting out the accomodation. Both June and I, (and it transpires a few others) had the bizarre experience of phoning up a hotel and apparently making a reservation, and then after sending confirmatory faxes, getting replies saying the hotel had no places. I posted a message to the Sabre mailing list saying I would definitely be there, but expected to be camping on the roundabout, but Robert sorted out yet another hotel wiling to accept mad English people and their equally eccentric cars.