We're finally going...

[MINIz guy]

I believe I posted last year about going to the BMW plant in SC but that didn't end up happening. This year, we're finally making that 700+ mile trip down to Greer, SC, with a few stops in between. Among those stops will be driving on the Tail of the Dragon, Blue Ridge Parkway, the Biltmore and on the way back we'll be going through Shenandoah Park. Best of all, I'll be attending the Teen Driving School.

Any tips on what to check before going? 2003 3.0i with ~71k miles. CV boots have been replaced within the last 20k miles along with the brakes and tierods. The obvious oil, coolant and tire pressure check will be done, but what else should be looked at?

[Kunphuzi0n]

Are you talking about the Tail of the Dragon on the TN and NC border? If so its not far from where I live. Its loads of fun, but crazy with bikers and a few stupid people. Last time I was there in a line of about 4 cars and a Miata decided it was a good idea to pass all of us on a curve, about saw a motorcyclist get squashed, not fun. Just be careful!

About checking the car, check you coolant, its hot as hell down here in the south this year!

[mrbmwx5]

Take the checks book with you..... May end up buying new BMW's while you there..

[MINIz guy]

No way we're going to get another BMW. There are 3 drivers in the family now and there are 3 BMW's for each. And one of them needs a parent to drive next to them, so there will only be 2 BMW's working at one time!

Looked underneath it today and the CV boots looked fine. Topped off the oil by adding 1 quart and the coolant was at max already. Looks like we'll be fine for tomorrow!

[Naz24]

MINIz i thought you got your license already?

[MINIz guy]

I just got my permit less than a week ago. I'm 16.

[jyosh]

wtf happened to getting the hand-me-down ford escort station wagon?

[Kunphuzi0n]

Lucky! I got the 12 year old leaking Mitsubishi for my 16th. And it cost me a grand. Took me 10 years before I was able to by my used X. I guess jealousy isn't flattering. Hope your trip goes well!

[FSETH]

Originally Posted by MINIz guy

I believe I posted last year about going to the BMW plant in SC but that didn't end up happening. This year, we're finally making that 700+ mile trip down to Greer, SC, with a few stops in between. Among those stops will be driving on the Tail of the Dragon, Blue Ridge Parkway, the Biltmore and on the way back we'll be going through Shenandoah Park. Best of all, I'll be attending the Teen Driving School.

Any tips on what to check before going? 2003 3.0i with ~71k miles. CV boots have been replaced within the last 20k miles along with the brakes and tierods. The obvious oil, coolant and tire pressure check will be done, but what else should be looked at?

I just drove past the BMW plant today on my way home from Tennessee.

Seeing as you just got your permit, I would suggest that you do not drive the Tail of the Dragon. It wouldn't be a wise move, imo. Not saying you couldn't do it, but there are way too many idiots on bikes as well as cars on that road. Also, if you are going over the holiday weekend, forget about it all together. It will be a waste of time with all the traffic.

I would also suggest never rolling down your windows in the X when you are traveling out of town. We went to a very small town in Tennessee this week and as soon as we arrived at our destination, my wife rolled down the passenger side window to talk to a relative in the driveway and it never cam up. Needless to say a 5 hour trip home today with a shower curtain closed in the door and some duct tape insurance sucked a$$.

[MINIz guy]

Eh, we're going on the Tail of the Dragon tomorrow morning. We'll see how it pans out and if I can drive it. I did manage to drive about 200 miles today and I'm loving it. Tennessee and North Carolina roads are beautiful, a much better change than the boring roads by Virginia.

I'll keep the window thing in mind as I know where you're coming from. Didn't follow it today as I practiced taking some rolling shots with my new Canon T1i. For now, here are some pictures of our 600+ mile first day trip. We're now in Asheville, NC for the night.