[Healeys] Healey Memories

[healeyguy at aol.com]

ListersMy wife and I were out for a walk in the neighborhood on a cool afternoon today and the conversation turned to what had happened in our lives on this date over the years. The day after Christmas in 1971 really stood out to both of us.We had been stationed in Hawaii during 1970 and 71. Near the end of 1970 the first major downsizing of troops in and about Vietnam was happening, We had to leave Hawaii along with our year old son, process out of the military after flying to California and head back home to Pennsylvania. 
At the same time Hawaii was prepping for a dock strike amongst the longshoremen. Fortunately we were able to ship our 1966 3000 to California just prior to the shutdown. 
When our orders to depart Hawaii finally came through we were able to meet up with the Healey in CA and head east.  Made it from San Jose to Gallop New Mexico before the water pump let go and we limped into town.  The local Ford dealer was next to the small motel we found to stay in and the garage offered to help with tools if I could find the parts. Had a pump shipped via the Greyhound Bus Company from San Diego (UPS, Fed Ex and Amazon Prime did not exist back then). Pump arrived and we installed it in the dealership. By the way the pump shipped was an early one with the pulley held on with a nut and the old one was a press fit.  Three spot welds with a stick welder on the nut to pulley joint held it all together. 
So, 50 years ago today "we three" where in Gallop enjoying peanut butter sandwiches, very tainted drinking water and making some new friends.  We were also anticipating the rest of the drive across America on what was left of Route 66 and what might happen along the way. 
We pulled into our hometown in western PA on New Years eve.  Another Austin Healey adventure completed.
All the best to all of you folks. Enjoy the ride. (if you can get it started!) Happy New YearPerry and Kimberley

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