How was the Nats?

[MsMopar]

I didn't get to go.  MsMopar

[TUFCAT]

Dust bowl, hot, totally dis-organized, completely mis-managed, filthy, shitty, hoopty cars, dirty bathrooms, horrible food, worthless swap meet, total confusion, mopeds, golf carts, mini-bikes, scooters, and dirt everwhere....

Any questions?      

[MsMopar]

Did you go or is that just your general opinion?  MsMopar

[TUFCAT]

Did you go or is that just your general opinion?   MsMopar

The event sucks....and continues to get worse every year.

[MsMopar]

No fun huh? I figured it would be hot. Was the cruise better at Heath or Brice this year? MsMopar

[1970Moparmann]

Did you go or is that just your general opinion?   MsMopar

The event sucks....and continues to get worse every year.

I haven't been for about 5 years for that reason.  Been doing more open large shows instead......

[Troy]

It was hot and sticky (big surprise!). Brice was dead but I heard Heath was packed. The show seemed less crowded and vendors said sales were down. It may have been the heat - no one was moving! I did not have any altercations with golf carts. I will post pictures when I recover.

Troy

[Nacho-RT74]

Dust bowl, hot, totally dis-organized, completely mis-managed, filthy, shitty, hoopty cars, dirty bathrooms, horrible food, worthless swap meet, total confusion, mopeds, golf carts, mini-bikes, scooters, and dirt everwhere....

Any questions?     

It looks Carlisle is still THE Mopar event... right ?

ore there is another one similar ? I have known one in Las Vegas ?

[JT01]

I had fun even though it was hot. You just have to have alot of patience walking around there. I bought a lot of parts. Profesor Partricks 68 Charger conv was awsome.

[noff57]

I enjoyed it other than the HEAT.

[MRCHARGER]

I had not gone in about 10 years. It didn't seem like "The Mopar Nationals". I've been to a Mopar show at Milan Dragway that was just as fun, just as hot, and just as dusty an 240 miles closer. I was thinking last night; where do they put the concourse cars and how do you keep them from getting blown out with dirt.

I'd say sales were down because vendors charged the same prices on stuff as the do on the internet, sure you save shipping, but most times that's only 5 or 10 bucks. It's not cheap to drive down to Columbus and stay 1 or 2 nights, gas, food, entry.... Whatever happened to the show discount. I'm not talking 50% or anything but even Year One gives you 20% from time to time. Give 10% so I feel like it was worth the trip.

As far as the swaps, some things never change; if it's for a Charger it must be worth it's weight in gold. After 25 years of going to these things I can't believe how many guys will keep putting the same junk back in their trailers when you are standing there with cash and a reasonable offer. I hate getting beat up on shit that I sell, but I'm selling it because I don't need it. Hey dude, wander around and see how many of these things are re-popped and figure if the original that you're selling is rusty, dirty, and broken just like the one the I pulled off my car why the hell would I buy it or anyone else for that matter. Either take the time to restore the piece and then expect top dollar or sell it like the piece of junk that it is. Or just keep throwing it out on the grass and then back in the trailer, whatever, but quit bitching about how bad things are or how cheap buyers are. I've got so much money tied up in my Charger it hurts to think about it and then I have to make someone rich because they have a bumper jack!?!?! (I feel better now that I got that off my chest)

Did have a good time talking with all the people, seeing the cars that inspire, and the smell of race gas and burnt rubber never gets old. Wonder if they make one of those scented candles in that smell, I'm telling my daughters that's what I want for Christmas.....

[4cruzin]

Yep . . it was definitely HOT!      Still had a good time checking out all the cars!  By the time the show was done, I was to exhausted to go to the cruise and just went back to the hotel to cool off and sleep for the next day.   

[BrianShaughnessy]

Hot and sweaty.   Working a show kinda blows.  Don't really get to see much of anything except for passing glances. 
I got to walk around for 1/2 hour Friday... got the golf cart for 1 hour on Sat. and Rick and I disappeared for a couple hours on Sunday only to get stuck doing all the work
cause everybody else abadoned ship at 11am 

Got to meet flyinlow and Professor Patrick      And of course I got to talk to Frank and Troy a couple times. 

Best part of my weekend was going to the Centerfold Club for a little while Thurs and Fri nights.   Checked out Ray Bartons shop on Wed... and playing with a BMW X5 with the 5.9 Limited GC on 78 going home. 

Oh... and I dragged home several cases of Vernors that I found at the Kroger by the hotel 

[Troy]

I was thinking last night; where do they put the concourse cars and how do you keep them from getting blown out with dirt.

The judged cars are on the other side of the track where it isn't nearly as dusty. The bigger side (where the swap meet is) can be a giant dust bowl and I refuse to take a car there if I have to park on that side. Last year it was only in the mid 80s and it had rained for about 2 weeks so the grass was still green and there was very little dust.

Troy

[Ghoste]

It was fantastic!!!!!

Yes it was hot and dusty but I see enough trailer queens in a year that this is still my favorite venue to come and see people actually driving their cars and enjoying them.  Its warts are part of its charm if you go in with the right attitude towards what you are doing there.  It's a party event with a drag race picnic on the side. It's loud and greasy and sitting on the grass.  It isn't an F1 event with air conditioned press boxes and hired models.

[DixieRestoParts]

I agree with many of the comments above. I think there is a lot of room for improvement and encourage you all to tell the Nats folks directly. Thanks to all the members that came by and purchased from us, it was nice meeting you all in person.

From my perspective as a vendor, it could have been a much better show. Our sales were down alot. I'm sure the weather didn't help there. We don't mark stuff up 50-60% or more just to tell folks we have a "show special" and give them 20% off. As a small family run business we run pretty thin margins to be competitive. When we roll into the Nats with 12 spaces at $95 each, our overhead is pretty strong. We've spent months getting merchandise ordered, labeled, displays ready and of course a nice 10 hr. drive pulling a trailer. Hotel rooms and food for a week add up fast. Since I do this in addition to my "day" job (like some other vendors), I take vacation time to come to the show. Standing in the heat all day with people thinking you can sell everything for half price just adds to the joy. LOL.

This year, on the way home from the Nats, my transmission went out in Norwood, OH. So, I'm sitting in a hotel waiting for it to be rebuilt to the tune of approximately $2400. More vacation time I have to take off from work, and the kids will miss more school - which they are happy about. Maybe if I'm lucky, I'll be outta here Tuesday. So, this year the Nats were not a good or profitable experience for me. But, I love these old cars, and love helping people with theirs. So, I guess I'll keep doing this awhile.

If you saw the Green RR in our space on Sat, the owner drove it from Atlanta to the Nats and is it an extremely nice car. I have to hand it to him driving in that heat with no AC.

[Ghoste]

That bites.  I hope you get home safely, quickly and affordably from this point.  As an aside, I did note your prices to be better than many but if you walked around the swap meet at all I'm sure you notice lots of folks who have "Nats Pricing" in effect for the weekend.  There are both styles of vendors there so people have to do their homework and know when they are getting hosed but also when they are being treated fairly.

[DixieRestoParts]

That bites.  I hope you get home safely, quickly and affordably from this point.  As an aside, I did note your prices to be better than many but if you walked around the swap meet at all I'm sure you notice lots of folks who have "Nats Pricing" in effect forthe weekend.  There are both styles of vendors there so people have to do there homework and know when they are getting hosed but also when they are being treated fairly.

Thanks !

I agree completely, you have to do your homework.

[66FBCharger]

I enjoyed the Nats. It was brutally hot.
I found some great stuff for my 69 Charger. I picked up a few things up for the wife's 'Cuda and some t shirts and some matchbox cars for the kids.
Our hotel on Brice road was 1/2 empty. They said they had a lot of cancellations. They blamed the economy. I think that is part of it . All the hotels in Heath were full. I am sure the action at Heath is the reason everyone is staying there now.
Heath had some action Friday night, but nothing as compared to the last several years. Saturday night the Ohio State police came in and cracked down ticketed and basically shut the night down. So, Saturday nights cruise was pretty lame!

[gschmidt211]

When it comes to fun at the Nats, you can't depend on the organizers to provide the fun.  It is completely up to you.  We had a blast regardless of the power tripping joke of a staff they have on the grounds. 

It is utter chaos inside of the gates.  And don't even think about pointing out some type of hypocrisy on the part of any of the organizers or they will tear up your ticket and kick you out.  Or at least that is the default threat if you question anyones authority.

Meeting the people that attend the show and bring their cars from all over is always a great time.

Brice is pretty much dead and Heath is great now that the community and their elected officials have embraced the cars and the people of the show.  I would like to thank the town of Heath and the people there for their generosity of letting us enjoy their town.

[TUFCAT]

gschmidt211 just nailed it! ~

[RESTO68]

I went and had the usual good time looking at all the parts and nice cars. This made probably 20 times going for me due it's only a couple hour drive. Like it or not with all the chaos if you like Mopars it can be a fun time at least I think so. Yes it can suck with the heat and dirt and all the people but I still enjoy it. I do wish they would do something about so many golf carts and just about anything else that with a motor running up and down the swap meet isles. How nobody gets ran over is amazing to me. I am always amazed at some of the venders prices. Some stuff I priced several years ago they still have only now it's more beat up and they want as much or more. I saw the same part from $50 to $250 in the same condition. Shop around and totally avoid the guys you see listed in the magazines. They have the goods but you will pay for it. They like to think they have the only one left in the world and it's made of gold. I bought lots good parts very reasonable but I had to look hard and do a lot of digging but that's mostly why I go.   

[Ghoste]

The only downside to me was only getting to spend about 20 minutes with Magnum471 this year.  He's become a good and trusted compadre over the years and the only time I really get to hang out with him is at the Nats and this year circumstances intervened to cut it short.

(next year buddy )

[DC_1]

I went, it was ok, I haven't been in 3 years and this time was not as good as I remember previous years but I think like everything else in our society maybe the bubble is bursting. Nothing is what it was - this hobby included. When everyone is making money and people can afford these cars and the cost to restoring them or even make a respectable "driver" then its good times. When we start to price things out of reach those who truly enjoy these cars and all the entertainment value they have to offer many revert to something else they can afford. Our numbers dwindle and so does the attendance at these show. I am sure there are many who have projects or even finished cars who just thought why bother going. Just my 2 cents.

For those interested here are some pics I took.

http://picasaweb.google.ca/110713923722814244219/MoparNats2010?authkey=Gv1sRgCM3T1_L2iqSfiQE&feat=directlink

[charge69]

Hey Sydmoe,   Great pics of the event!  Actually made me want to go but, my car is still being finished.  The pic around 78 or 79 of the Copper Hemi Daytona made me think.  I have a set of NOS Hemi hubcaps and still think about putting them on the Charger. It came with them from the factory as that one did , I am sure , and they are still in the running for some wider-than-stock wheels with NOS hubcaps on it. I atill have all 5 original  Hemi 15" wheels too.

How did it look with the hubcaps vs. all the aftermarket wheels? By the way, I am still considering Cragars for it.

[Charger-Bodie]

I'd say sales were down because vendors charged the same prices on stuff as the do on the internet, sure you save shipping, but most times that's only 5 or 10 bucks. It's not cheap to drive down to Columbus and stay 1 or 2 nights, gas, food, entry.... Whatever happened to the show discount. I'm not talking 50% or anything but even Year One gives you 20% from time to time. Give 10% so I feel like it was worth the trip.

Its also not free for venders to get to the Nats .....Some of them I know of spend 3-4 grand just to do the thing.

[Ghoste]

I guess for me I'm not too worried about a show discount.  Saving on the shipping to Canada is a biggie and I'm going anyway so...
However it would be nice if they had the stuff there (some do some don't) and hand out a catalog for the future.

[DC_1]

I guess for me I'm not too worried about a show discount.  Saving on the shipping to Canada is a biggie and I'm going anyway so...
However it would be nice if they had the stuff there (some do some don't) and hand out a catalog for the future.

I completely agree. I came home with $500 in my pocket someone could have taken from me if they brought some things I needed and had them available. Our Canadian government makes us all smugglers up here..... its not just the extra shipping cost, its the tax they charge on the invoice value when it crosses the border. I still ended up spending about $1500 on parts that some of the vendors did have available.

[Johnnys70SRT]

 I have been going to the NATS for over 20 years now and have never been so disgusted and disappointed as I was this year. I contacted a few vendors prior to the NATS to have them bring parts for me and they agreed. Little did I know what an adventure was ahead of me!!!
So I arrive at the NATS Saturday afternoon with the intention of picking up the parts I pre-ordered and ordering more items from vendors that were at the show. First stop was the Mopar Nats headquarters tent to get some T-shirts. Looking at the display, I see the 30 year tribute shirts are already sold out. Then if you want the standard issue NATS shirt, they only have sizes L-XL-XXL. So I bought a shirt one size bigger than I needed and asked for a bag. Guy procedes to tell me they are all out of those too. I asked him who plans a 30th anniversary car show and runs out of stuff this early in the game??? After 30 years you think you would have some kind of system, but not at the NATS. This was only the beginning of things to come.
Finding the vendors like Year One and Legendary Auto Interiors was not a problem because of course they were right on the Mid-way. However, trying to find the vendors that were outside of the Mid-way seemed nearly impossible. I had a friend of mine with me and we were both searching without success. So I went back to the headquarters tent to ask them where I could find a couple of vendors I was looking for. First guy I talk to says, "your just gonna have to walk around the grounds and find them."    So I ask someone else under the tent to help me out and I get the same damn answer!!!   I could go on and on with this, but I'm sure you all get the point. There was no cooperation or customer service of any kind by the people running the Mopar Nats!!!
Continuing on my Saturday adventure, I had no success in finding the vendors I was looking for. I asked everyone from other vendors to spectators to other friends I knew were at the show, with no luck. Stormy weather started to move in and everyone began to flee the track. So it was time to leave and come back Sunday to get my parts. Came in early on Sunday and continued the search for vendors I was looking for. Seemed that alot of people must have packed up and left Saturday because of the weather forecast for Sunday because the field was pretty empty. Totally frustrated, I was about to hang up my search but decided to ask just 1 more person if they knew where I could find the vendors I was looking for. There was a lemonade stand at the back of the track with a teenage kid working it. So I ask him if he could help me and he actually did. He left the stand shortly and walked me over to a map of the track with the vendors listed on it. ARE YOU KIDDING ME? This kid knew about a map and NOONE from the MOPAR NATS CREW did?? WTF!!!   Something is definitely wrong with this picture. We found a couple of the vendors listed on the map and he directed me to where I could find them. I went to their spaces only to find out that the majority of them left on Saturday. Now I look like the fool who did not pick up my parts.
I knew going into this that the NATS is not the most organized event, but I surely did not expect it to be such a debacle as it was this year. For those of us that are disgusted with this event, we need to write to the NATS organization and express our dissatisfaction.
I believe TUFFCAT summed the whole weekend up in his description. National Trail Raceway has alot to learn about hosting an event like this. Over 20 years later and you folks still can't even keep the bathrooms presentable!!! Pay someone to clean those things once in awhile. ABSOLUTLEY DISGUSTING!!!!!!   By the way, National Trail, the participants of this show have thousands of dollars invested in their cars and I'm sure they do not appreciate hundreds of golf carts flying around their vehicles. If you want to have track officials shuttle people around on golf carts that is one thing, but most of the people who rented those golf carts think the grounds are one big go-kart track for them to race around. I almost got hit around a dozen times while I was walking. This is ridiculous!!!!
I feel sorry for the vendors that spent good money to buy spaces and got NO support from the Mopar Nats organization whatsoever. This is not right and must be addressed by the Mopar Nats officials.
To those of you considering going to the NATS, I recommend that you save your time and money and go to Chrysler's @ Carlisle instead. Carlisle is much more organized and much more appreciative of their vendors and participants. There is no drag racing at the Carlise fairgrounds, but the quality of the show more than makes up for it. Oh yeah, and the bathrooms at Carlisle are spotless.
GOODBYE MOPAR NATIONALS  - from here on out I will be attending Chrysler's @Carlisle because they know how to run a show the right way.    
TO ANSWER YOUR THREAD QUESTION- THE NATS SUCKED!!!!!!!

[bakerhillpins]

 There was a lemonade stand at the back of the track with a teenage kid working it. So I ask him if he could help me and he actually did. He left the stand shortly and walked me over to a map of the track with the vendors listed on it. ARE YOU KIDDING ME? This kid knew about a map and NOONE from the MOPAR NATS CREW did?? WTF!!!   Something is definitely wrong with this picture. We found a couple of the vendors listed on the map and he directed me to where I could find them.

Dude! You bought some lemonade off of that kid right?    

Not to throw it off topic but Chrysler's @Carlisle is mentioned. My first year at Carlisle this year and the woman at Gate 7 ends up charging me (yes arguing ensued) for my boys who were 8 even though on the web it said 8 and under free. The 2 women running entry/exit overheard the altercation and told me that I needed to come to this gate tomorrow morning and they would let all of us in for free to make it up. They made an executive decision on the spot (a $20 one), no organizers or calls to the front desk, to solve the problem. Sure enough the following morning they saw us walking up and pulled us aside and said that we were all set. I ended up paying for the adults anyhow against their urging but they sent me to the fairground office to get a refund. I didn't exactly find my way there easily as it was all new to me but everyone who I asked was helpful and told me to come back if I got lost. Once there, one 30 second explanation and they handed me 20 bucks with out any argument or even wanting to see my kids to prove their age.

Ill be going back next year. Hopefully with my own ride to show off.  

[Troy]

There should be a standard disclaimer that most vendors pack up Saturday afternoon and travel home Sunday. I saw some swap spaces closing down for the day at 3 PM on Saturday - which I thought was very unusual. Probably had something to do with the low foot traffic. Some vendors (mostly used parts it seems) stay until about noon-1 on Sunday but then hightail it out of there. Generally Legendary, Hardens, Mancini, and Year One will be there Sunday but will be completely put of inventory. Legendary will at least take your order and offer free shipping. A lot of the cars (ones that didn't win awards at least) are also gone Sunday. I go Sunday to find the odd deal, talk to anyone I missed, and to get better pictures of the nicest cars since they are out of the tents, there's no one blocking my view, and the hoods and doors are closed. I guess if you're into racing the finals are Sunday as well.

I thought it was completely hilarious that there were at least 15 people directing me to my parking spot Sunday. There are very few spectators (maybe 4-5 rows of cars in the very front) but they had a line of people waving flags about every 30 feet (and they still charged me full price to park).

It's sad that the employees have no idea how to find anything. The vendors know what spot they are in a long time before the show so maybe it's best to ask them beforehand. I honestly think that (especially since it's a race track) National Trails is primarily concerned about the racers/racing and the show is an afterthought. I hate being in the Midway because you can't talk to any of the vendors due to all the noise (it's between the track and staging lanes). Not to mention having the show split in half by the track so you end up walking 20 miles each day (which explains the overabundance of golf carts/4 wheelers/pit bikes too). Monster Mopar has a similar format (racing and show) but it's not nearly as chaotic since the track, pits, midway, swap and car show are clearly delineated - and motorized vehicles are prohibited in certain areas.

Troy

[rattlehead_74]

The one and only time i ever went to the MOPAR NATIONALS was over ten years ago it was at the indiannapolis raceway park??? It was very hot but was very cool event ...tons and tons of "mopes" i remember right behind the drag race track there was a big ol line of superbirds and daytonas ,,that was the coolest part,,we liked it so much we drove home to illinois and went back the next day,,,sounds like it may not be worth the 4 hour plus drive Id have to make to go now but anyways ...oohh it was also cool to watch the drags all weekend too,,thanks, later

[gtx6970]

Whats a show special??     I got asked about one about every 20 minutes.

No offense meant, but I have temporary real estate rent to pay , Hotel expenses, fuel costs and All of a sudden I'm now supposed to sell it cheaper.

I gave out at least a case of water for free.and even a few ice cold MGD's to the customers I knew.
Early saturday afternoon one guy looked like he was going to melt when he came in and paid me for a purchase. and when I offered him a cold bottle of water you would have thought I handed him a $100 dollar bill

[MRCHARGER]

"I thought it was completely hilarious that there were at least 15 people directing me to my parking spot Sunday. There are very few spectators (maybe 4-5 rows of cars in the very front) but they had a line of people waving flags about every 30 feet (and they still charged me full price to park)."

That was pretty funny and they were very serious about getting you exactly to the right spot. The girl at the very end gave me a nasty look because I didn't park my van close enough to the truck next to me (I needed the space to open the side doors). Plus I pulled up 2" to far.

I have to admit though, I got everything on my list and found parts I have been searching eBay and Craig's for 3 years. It was a lot of fun. I can't put my finger on it, but it just seems like something is missing. I was really glad to see bins and boxes of original fasteners and clips, I love diggin through those things.

I didn't realize that it cost so much for the vendors to do the show but if you research like I do in your mind your hoping to pay a LITTLE less than the catalogue price. Funny how insulted people are that I would have the audacity to want a small discount for driving 4 hours walking around in 110 degree (heat index) and spending plenty of my hard to come by $$$ to get there, stay there, park, gate... it's not cheap for me either. All the new parts I bought would have been cheaper to buy just sitting here on my ass at this computer, shipping isn't that much. A lot of people were offering beverages for a donation, no one offered me anything for free. It's nice to know that someone was taking care of customers/fellow Mopar enthusiast.

As far as the swap meet goes, I've always been frustrated with Charger part prices, it's like everyone wants to take advantage of us. Although there is a price to be paid for owning the best car Mopar ever made. I've sold stuff at swap meets before and I'd rather see someone take it home and use it then end up back in my trailer. Many, many parts are being re-popped and if you are restoring a car you won't put junk on it. The days of people building the "Joe Dirt Daytona" are gone (I hope). Side note, at the woodward dreamcruise 2 years ago I saw one that was a real XX car and it had all the right stuff for one it looked just like the car from the movie. I didn't know what to think, it seemed wrong but cool at the same time.

I'm giving the Nats a B this year.

[472 R/T SE]

I don't know if it has anything to do with being in a chair but I'm usually always prepared.

My first trip to the east coast for a Mopar show, Carlisle, and I knew exactly where Bill (A & M) was cause weeks prior I got a map.  Same with Frank & Metro.  I hadn't spent any money with these guys' just wanted to meet them.

And they were exactly where the map showed them being.

[MsMopar]

I enjoyed reading all the input, good or bad. I know the show is what you make of it, but last year I was disappointed that Brice Rd was dead. I liked the 4 lanes and the lighting better than Heath. Maybe it is time for them to move to a different location again. I wasn't impressed with Indy either, although, it was half the distance for me. I hear Brainard (Sp?) Minnesota is a really nice track. Any other suggestions? Maybe the Nats officials will see this thread and try somewhere else. MsMopar

[PA Dodger]

The only "big" shows I've done are Chrysler Carlisle and the Nats. I've done every Chrysler Carlisle event and about 20 Nats shows. I like Carlisle because it's an organized car show. I like the Nats because I love the drag racing and the cruising atmosphere. As far as swap meet, I see the same used parts vendors cart the same crap to these two shows for way too long now. You would think they would get the message.
As for the Nats, is it track staff or Mopar Nats staff that run the show? Someone needs to police the show! I'm the person who is going to go postal on every a$$hole on a quad or golfcart that is too lazy to walk the swap meet, or the midway( where they aren't supposed to be), or in the general car show section.  They drive through the swap meet aisles and shop from their golf cart. You're always trying to get around them or you're getting run over!
I met some great people, saw lots of nice cars, enjoyed the cruises, and had a great time otherwise. That's what makes it worth it. Wouldn't miss it...unless it goes back to Indy.

[noff57]

The Golf carts is what I HATE. 

[flyinlow]

Went Friday and Saturday. Heat was a killer. Met Brain . Looked for Ghostes cook out , never found it. Brice was dead . Got spanked by a Hemi Super Bee driving home , caught me in  Sleeping in Overdrive and lock- up .  Friday night in Heath was great.,lots of burn outs. Saturday night it rained, when it finnally dried out it was late and the cops where starting to shut it down. Spectators braved the weather. Way to many non Mopars clogging the route. Swap meet was good. Got a trunk load of treasures.  The Charger took the heat ,traffic, and burn-outs in stride.

[DixieRestoParts]

Wish me luck and say a Prayer for me gang. If all goes well, I should be on the road today by 3pm. The shop had to order some parts that were damaged and one of them was wrong. They are trying to get it exchanged now and hope to have it by noon. The hotel has given me an extended check-out, so that saves a few bucks.

I had to replace the engine after this year's Carlisle, and it was just out of warranty. Ma Mopar would not help. Last year, I had the rear-end rebuilt under warranty just after the Nats, so I've basically got a new drivetrain. The tranny shop guy said he'd never seen a vehicle so well maintained and clean. LOL. I guess that was nice compliment, but I sure would rather have not had to replace the tranny. $$$$$$$ I just wasn't expecting to spend.

So much for trading it in on a diesel. I'm too deep in it now with new engine and tranny. 

[DC_1]

Wish me luck and say a Prayer for me gang. If all goes well, I should be on the road today by 3pm. The shop had to order some parts that were damaged and one of them was wrong. They are trying to get it exchanged now and hope to have it by noon. The hotel has given me an extended check-out, so that saves a few bucks.

I had to replace the engine after this year's Carlisle, and it was just out of warranty. Ma Mopar would not help. Last year, I had the rear-end rebuilt under warranty just after the Nats, so I've basically got a new drivetrain. The tranny shop guy said he'd never seen a vehicle so well maintained and clean. LOL. I guess that was nice compliment, but I sure would rather have not had to replace the tranny. $$$$$$$ I just wasn't expecting to spend.

So much for trading it in on a diesel. I'm too deep in it now with new engine and tranny. 

Put a pic of the beast up!

[DixieRestoParts]

Wish me luck and say a Prayer for me gang. If all goes well, I should be on the road today by 3pm. The shop had to order some parts that were damaged and one of them was wrong. They are trying to get it exchanged now and hope to have it by noon. The hotel has given me an extended check-out, so that saves a few bucks.

I had to replace the engine after this year's Carlisle, and it was just out of warranty. Ma Mopar would not help. Last year, I had the rear-end rebuilt under warranty just after the Nats, so I've basically got a new drivetrain. The tranny shop guy said he'd never seen a vehicle so well maintained and clean. LOL. I guess that was nice compliment, but I sure would rather have not had to replace the tranny. $$$$$$$ I just wasn't expecting to spend.

So much for trading it in on a diesel. I'm too deep in it now with new engine and tranny. 

Put a pic of the beast up!

Here she is !

[chargerboy69]

Dust bowl, hot, totally dis-organized, completely mis-managed, filthy, shitty, hoopty cars, dirty bathrooms, horrible food, worthless swap meet, total confusion, mopeds, golf carts, mini-bikes, scooters, and dirt everwhere....

Any questions?      

I did not go the last couple years and did not miss it one bit this year. Until they move it out of Columbus, (the place is a total sh!t hole) I will not be back.  IRP was so much nicer of a facility to hold the show.  And attendance was never higher in participants and lookers than it was when it was in Indy.  Great move by the organizers. 

[DixieRestoParts]

Looks like I spoke too soon. They ordered the wrong parts, maybe I can leave tomorrow. 

[41husk]

Are they giving you the after show special

[DixieRestoParts]

Are they giving you the after show special

LOL !!

Oh yeah, I'm getting the "special". Actually, they are paying for the last 2 nights hotel and they offered to rent me a car to go to Atlanta, so I can't complain there. But, 8  hours home just to turn around and do another 16 hours this Sat just doesn't make sense. So, I'm crossing my fingers and hoping that Ma Mopar will get the right parts in tomorrow.

I'm having the tranny fixed at a Aamco, the owner answered the phone on Sunday and was very helpful with directions to his place and "safe" motel information. So, I had it towed there. He's even offered to take me places if we needed to go, such as Wal-mart. Which is where I'll be going this afternoon as we're all out of clean clothes. 

[41husk]

Good luck!! sounds like an adventure

[Daytona R/T SE]

Dust bowl, hot, totally dis-organized, completely mis-managed, filthy, shitty, hoopty cars, dirty bathrooms, horrible food, worthless swap meet, total confusion, mopeds, golf carts, mini-bikes, scooters, and dirt everwhere....

Any questions?      

I did not go the last couple years and did not miss it one bit this year. Until they move it out of Columbus, (the place is a total sh!t hole) I will not be back.  IRP was so much nicer of a facility to hold the show.  And attendance was never higher in participants and lookers than it was when it was in Indy.  Great move by the organizers. 

These are EXACTLY my thoughts on the Mopar Nationals.

[BrianShaughnessy]

Good luck with the transmission and getting home Randy!   

Being from Michigan originally myself,   I can only sympathize with having to stay in Ohio for any length of time.   Try not to drink the water   

I lost the power steering pump in the Jeep but we kept on going anyway.     Troy and I tried to have a conversation over the sounds of the dragstrip while he watched me and Rick dismantling and stuffing the MA tent contents... then we got on the road by noon Sunday.  I got home 11pm. 

I wish they'd move the gNats back to the Chelsea grounds... or anyplace that has a decent set of clean bathrooms! 

[TUFCAT]

Dust bowl, hot, totally dis-organized, completely mis-managed, filthy, shitty, hoopty cars, dirty bathrooms, horrible food, worthless swap meet, total confusion, mopeds, golf carts, mini-bikes, scooters, and dirt everwhere....

Any questions?      

I did not go the last couple years and did not miss it one bit this year. Until they move it out of Columbus, (the place is a total sh!t hole) I will not be back.  IRP was so much nicer of a facility to hold the show.  And attendance was never higher in participants and lookers than it was when it was in Indy.  Great move by the organizers.  

I agree. This is not the premier Mopar show by any stretch of the imagination....and therefore should not be called "the Nationals" IMO.  I don't agree that a show of this much importance (mostly by name only) should be held at such a dumpy facilty. 

[DC_1]

I wish they'd move the gNats back to the Chelsea grounds... or anyplace that has a decent set of clean bathrooms! 

What a great idea! That would be an awesome venue that would be! I was there years ago when they had an Open House and as a car guy it was one of the greatest things I have ever been to.

[chargerboy69]

I wish they'd move the gNats back to the Chelsea grounds... or anyplace that has a decent set of clean bathrooms! 

What a great idea! That would be an awesome venue that would be! I was there years ago when they had an Open House and as a car guy it was one of the greatest things I have ever been to.

Sounds good to me. 

Now is there a drag strip there?  I know there is a oval track.  I know for some, they come for the drag racing.  Me, I could not care less.

Joliet IL has a top rate facility there, and I can not understand why Nats organizers do not consider this place as well. They have a drag strip and Chicagoland Speedway all right there.

[TUFCAT]

I'm pretty sure it has to do with the money........ National Trails is probably much cheaper to rent, and its "all about the money".

[richRTSE]

Sounds to me like a lot of people that didn't go sure didn't like it, but I had a great time, even with the heat. We already booked our rooms for next year too.


This is the only "big" mopar show I make it to every year, along with one or two of the CC events.  I never made it to the Nationals at Indy, but I've been to Columbus every year since '98.  Seemed just about as crowded this year, and I had just as much of a hard time finding a place to park my car as last year.  Personally, I don't expect to get McDonald's prices on burgers or valet  parking at an event this big. We usually bring a cooler full of stuff and hit the local restaurants when we leave. And I imagine with attendance close to 50,000 for the weekend the bathrooms will get a little gross. I will say that the last couple of years the bathroom situation has gotten better with the his and hers portable bathroom trailers they've brought in a placed through out the track. Even have portable  sinks with soap and water. Definately an improvement over rows of the port-a-pots.

I didn't seem to notice the golf carts as much this years as in the past, but I also didn't spend very much time in the swap area either.

Personally I'd like to see it move to Norwalk (Summit Raceway Park), as that is definately a nicer track than National Trails, and I'm sure people closer to Indy would like to see it moved  back there. I tried to find attendance numbers for the Nationals at Indy, but all I could find was one article that said attendance was "almost 48,000" in '93. I did find attendance number for Columbus from 1999-2009 and its been at least 48,000 every year with highs of over 56,000 in 2004 and 2005. I don't think attendance has taken a hit moving it out of Indy. I do seem to remember during the Indy years people complaining about it being there too. I guess you'll never please every one.

[chargerboy69]

I tried to find attendance numbers for the Nationals at Indy, but all I could find was one article that said attendance was "almost 48,000" in '93. I did find attendance number for Columbus from 1999-2009 and its been at least 48,000 every year with highs of over 56,000 in 2004 and 2005. I don't think attendance has taken a hit moving it out of Indy. I do seem to remember during the Indy years people complaining about it being there too. I guess you'll never please every one.

They posted the numbers a year or two back in Mopar Action or Mopar Muscle for the last 15 or so Nats.  I remember every year in Indy was higher than Columbus, and by a substantial number too. I will see if I can dig it up. Either way, I should not get so worked up on them moving it as Tufcat said earlier.  It is all about money, and I would guess Columbus is cheaper than other tracks.

[challenger70]

Sounds to me like a lot of people that didn't go sure didn't like it, but I had a great time, even with the heat. We already booked our rooms for next year too.


This is the only "big" mopar show I make it to every year, along with one or two of the CC events.  I never made it to the Nationals at Indy, but I've been to Columbus every year since '98.  Seemed just about as crowded this year, and I had just as much of a hard time finding a place to park my car as last year.  Personally, I don't expect to get McDonald's prices on burgers or valet  parking at an event this big. We usually bring a cooler full of stuff and hit the local restaurants when we leave. And I imagine with attendance close to 50,000 for the weekend the bathrooms will get a little gross. I will say that the last couple of years the bathroom situation has gotten better with the his and hers portable bathroom trailers they've brought in a placed through out the track. Even have portable  sinks with soap and water. Definately an improvement over rows of the port-a-pots.

I didn't seem to notice the golf carts as much this years as in the past, but I also didn't spend very much time in the swap area either.

Personally I'd like to see it move to Norwalk (Summit Raceway Park), as that is definately a nicer track than National Trails, and I'm sure people closer to Indy would like to see it moved  back there. I tried to find attendance numbers for the Nationals at Indy, but all I could find was one article that said attendance was "almost 48,000" in '93. I did find attendance number for Columbus from 1999-2009 and its been at least 48,000 every year with highs of over 56,000 in 2004 and 2005. I don't think attendance has taken a hit moving it out of Indy. I do seem to remember during the Indy years people complaining about it being there too. I guess you'll never please every one.

  it seems everyone that wasn't there had a terrible time   You can't compare it to carlisle, the 'nats has it all, racing, cruising, swap, vendors, etc... not just 2-3 things like Carlisle. 

[SuperJim]

We set up in the swap meet and did about the same $ amount the last 3 years. I understand some expecting a discount at a show, but as pointed out by some others it does cost us vendors for space, hotels for 4 nights, and gas for traveling about 1,800 miles. That all addss to our cost of doing business, so it's hard to discount things then, and still make something. We'll keep going because we do sell some product, and really enjoy talking with current customers, meet and greet new customers, look at the cars, and eat at Waffle House. So we'll be back.

It does amaze me though how Carlise can have an event with no un-needed golf carts, no 4x4's, no mopeds, no bicycles, and have a very busy successful event of grand size. Without all that stuff. Love the ones who park in front of your 20 foot opening with their 10 foot long carts. Why not stay out in the middle of the aisle? It would make sense...

Anyway, yes I still like the Nat's, had fun, will go again. Just wish they were a bit different like Carlise. WHAT a place that is....

[PA Dodger]

It does amaze me though how Carlise can have an event with no un-needed golf carts, no 4x4's, no mopeds, no bicycles, and have a very busy successful event of grand size. Without all that stuff. Love the ones who park in front of your 20 foot opening with their 10 foot long carts. Why not stay out in the middle of the aisle? It would make sense...

That was my biggest complaint with the Nats.
As far as Indy, I went one year. I liked it more than Columbus. But I got pulled over twice in Indy for not "being somewhere". Not for speeding, or drunk driving, or road rage. I wasn't even in a musclecar! Just my suspicious? looking Dakota. When I told the officer we were looking for a resturant I was told to go to the hotel until we picked a place to eat. Gotta love that hospitality. Makes me want to go back again and again.

[DixieRestoParts]

We finally made it home tonight about 9:30. This has been one expensive show season for me. An engine after Carlisle and a tranny after the Nats. Guess those Hemi's aren't all their cracked up to be. LOL.

Good to be home. Thanks for all the well wishes.

[Ghoste]

Glad to hear you're home okay.

[SuperJim]

You can't compare it to carlisle, the 'nats has it all, racing, cruising, swap, vendors, etc... not just 2-3 things like Carlisle. 

But let's compare the Nat's to Carlisle - for a swap vendor as we are.

NATS:
Swap Meet on uneven grass and/or rocks, dusty pathways with golf carts, mopeds, 4x4's, cars, trucks, people parking in front of your space to talk to others or go to a different space. Food choices of burger, riblet sandwich, pizza.

CARLISLE: Swap meet on nice grass, paved roads with only medical/emergency, parts hauling traffic. No one ever blocking your space. Food choices... been there? Wow. Plus a place to sit in the shade... They even "answer" the phone, to help with questions on the event.

I agree the Nat's racing is great, Nat's cruising is fun, and that those things are not at Carlisle. But if you're going to be a vendor... Nat's are no fun, just part of what one must put up with in doing business.

Just my opinion.

[RAC95054]

I had not gone in about 10 years. It didn't seem like "The Mopar Nationals". I've been to a Mopar show at Milan Dragway that was just as fun, just as hot, and just as dusty an 240 miles closer. I was thinking last night; where do they put the concourse cars and how do you keep them from getting blown out with dirt.

I'd say sales were down because vendors charged the same prices on stuff as the do on the internet, sure you save shipping, but most times that's only 5 or 10 bucks. It's not cheap to drive down to Columbus and stay 1 or 2 nights, gas, food, entry.... Whatever happened to the show discount. I'm not talking 50% or anything but even Year One gives you 20% from time to time. Give 10% so I feel like it was worth the trip.

As far as the swaps, some things never change; if it's for a Charger it must be worth it's weight in gold. After 25 years of going to these things I can't believe how many guys will keep putting the same junk back in their trailers when you are standing there with cash and a reasonable offer. I hate getting beat up on shit that I sell, but I'm selling it because I don't need it. Hey dude, wander around and see how many of these things are re-popped and figure if the original that you're selling is rusty, dirty, and broken just like the one the I pulled off my car why the hell would I buy it or anyone else for that matter. Either take the time to restore the piece and then expect top dollar or sell it like the piece of junk that it is. Or just keep throwing it out on the grass and then back in the trailer, whatever, but quit bitching about how bad things are or how cheap buyers are. I've got so much money tied up in my Charger it hurts to think about it and then I have to make someone rich because they have a bumper jack!?!?! (I feel better now that I got that off my chest)

Well put.  I wish they would all read this post and at least try to justify the prices they ask. Sure, takes time/gas/effort to track someof it down, but I for many it's not a full time job either.

[Charger_Dart]

My wife & I really enjoyed the Nats this year. We have been going for the last 12 years and this year was hot, really hot, but still a good time. I guess we know what to expect going into it so the issues that have been brought up are there and should be addressed by organizers. The worst part for me is the golf carts. On Friday I could not believe that a couple of guys thought it was a good idea to stand? in line, in their golf cart for the goodie bag and registration - talk about lazy. Heck it was only a 5 minute wait. Anyways, I would like to mention that the town of Heath really tried to make the cruising of their town a place to be. This year there setup trash cans and port-o-lets along the cruise route and had live music. Very nicely done, and a totally different attitude then Reynoldsburg or Indy. We brought the Dart this year and bought some parts from the vendors at what I considered to be good prices. This year we made the trip to Mopars at the Strip and have been to Carlisle but we really enjoy the racing and cruising so the Nats win for us. It was fun this year and we will go back again next year. If you liked the way Heath treated us, send the mayor a email -mayor@heathohio.gov
Mike