St. Thomas Plant Tour [Archive] - MercuryMarauder.net Forums

MapleLeafMerc

11-30-2003, 12:43 PM

Thanks to MOK I am aware of a St. Thomas meet/plant tour organized by CrownVic.net members. They had their last tour June 13-15, 2003. The weekend included an evening at the St. Thomas dragway.

I have some questions as a result.

1. How many MM owners would want to and be able to come to St. Thomas?

2. Would it be preferable to have our own MM tour instead? I am presuming that you need a minimum number of participants before they'll run a plant tour for you.

3. Would joining the CVN group be just as good? (assuming they'll let us join, and assuming that they are doing it again next year)

Other thoughts:

-if we joined the CVN group, the date would be whatever they choose, likely June again. On our own, other dates could be chosen.

-total number of MM attendees wouldn't matter if we joined the CVN group

-joining CVN means the legwork of preparation is already done; an MM event would mean more focus in terms of any discussions with Ford people and amongst ourselves

-please bear in mind that I have a) no idea how hard it is to arrange a plant tour, b) no experience as a tour guide, and c) no idea what dates might even be available.

I'm sure there are other questions and ideas. Just speaking for myself, I'd love to go and wouldn't mind joining up with the CVN group.

PS, if anyone else is working on this idea, great! Let us know.

Logan

11-30-2003, 02:01 PM

I don't see why those interested would mine going with the CVN guys? Seems like a natural to me...

TripleTransAm

11-30-2003, 02:09 PM

No problem joining up with the CV group. Charles (MTL_CV) invited me to go along with him this past year but my 2003's been a little hectic so I had to pass.

Strength in numbers... it's probably easier to get a tour when joined up with the CV group. Nothing wrong with joining "as a group" as this shows our solidarity, but if anything it increases our exposure.

SILVERMARAUDER

11-30-2003, 03:22 PM

i would be in on that as long as i had plenty of notice wonder if they allow children 9 and 13? in the plant? and the CV'S are our natural ali's ok by me 4 if ok with kids and 2 if not!

MapleLeafMerc

11-30-2003, 06:09 PM

For more direct info go to:

http://www30.brinkster.com/dftaylor/cvn/

MI2QWK4U

11-30-2003, 06:11 PM

I went with the crown vic guys this past June, they were great and welcomed me with open arms. I just talked tonight with the Motown Marauders about going next year, and I think there would be at least 7 or more of us going next year. I dont think there is much of a minimum to book a tour. If you remember, they invited us all to attend, even posted here with a link to all the info on going to STAP, and I was the only Marauder to show up, so I dont know if we made too good of an impression. Myself and the Michigan group will be going, so if someone wants to check it out with St Thomas and find out, so be it. It would be nice to go with a decent group, but face it, folks arent going to trek to far to see an assembly factory! Here in the Detroit area, it was just a little more than an hour drive, and made for a nice day trip. Let me know what your thoughts are.....

MI2QWK4U

11-30-2003, 06:17 PM

check these out....

http://mercurymarauder.net/forums/showthread.php?s=&threadid=3134

http://mercurymarauder.net/forums/showthread.php?s=&threadid=2446

http://mercurymarauder.net/forums/showthread.php?s=&threadid=2110

bigslim

11-30-2003, 06:18 PM

I will be there with you Dave.

MI2QWK4U

11-30-2003, 06:30 PM

STAP 2003

MI2QWK4U

11-30-2003, 06:31 PM

STAP 2003:
The only Marauder to show up, but I am glad I went....I hope we can do better next year.....

MarauderMike

11-30-2003, 06:46 PM

Sounds like a plan to me!

Bigdogjim

11-30-2003, 06:54 PM

I think its a natural! The cars were made there(duh)

It would be cool to see where they came from.

I'm in...................

TripleTransAm

11-30-2003, 08:20 PM

Sounds like a "Canadian Invasion" is in the works... looking forward to it.

MapleLeafMerc

11-30-2003, 10:06 PM

MI2QWK4U, you were ahead of your time. I didn't even know about MM.net until I joined in August, let alone a STAP tour. So, are you and the Michigan group definitely going to the CVN meet?

SILVER, the info at the CVN site says 18 yrs + for plant tour. :depress:

bigslim

11-30-2003, 11:41 PM

We will be there. We should have a good number.

Lowell

12-01-2003, 12:30 AM

Sounds like a natural thing to me! Not a bad trip from Saginaw. Looks like about four hours of driving. I am interested.

DetGeno

12-01-2003, 12:47 AM

Sounds like another Motor City Marauder Trip!!! You bet I'm in!!! Hopefully with our new front and rear facia, that will really give those guys and gals in St. Thomas a showing!!!

TripleG

12-01-2003, 04:40 AM

I'm interested. That could be a great summer time road trip.

Bob

12-01-2003, 05:24 AM

It's a 5 - 6 hour drive from Ottawa. I'd be interested to go either with the CrownVic group or on our own.

67435animal

12-01-2003, 06:08 AM

Depending on the date, I will try to make it.

Bob

beemer

12-01-2003, 04:52 PM

Originally posted by MI2QWK4U
STAP 2003:
The only Marauder to show up, but I am glad I went....I hope we can do better next year.....

You were not the only one. My Marauder is about in the center of this panorama of the STAP parking lot 2003. Look for skull and crossbones vanity plate.

http://photos.imageevent.com/crvtte65/cars/crownvicnet/cvn2ndstthomasassemblyplant2//Panoramic.tif.jpg

From all of us at CVN, we would welcome MM.net members to participate in our annual STAP weekend. St.Thomas has the memorable St.Thomas international dragway, where lots of fun is to be had as well, not to mention downtown!

Best,

Paul :)

jgc61sr2002

12-01-2003, 05:30 PM

Bob - Welcome aboard. You came to the right place good info and nice folks.:D :up:

bigslim

12-01-2003, 08:21 PM

That's a big a## picture! We are gonna rock that house next year.

MI2QWK4U

12-01-2003, 09:18 PM

Sorry Paul, I should have clarified, I meant the only one from michigan, where more were sold than any other state, I was dissapointed when I tried to get a group together to head over. We didnt have a forum yet though....wait till we decend on St Thomas in 2004!!

vaderv

12-02-2003, 02:12 PM

Id come as long as I could get rid of the paint depts management and show the rest how to paint a damned car!!!

MapleLeafMerc

12-03-2003, 08:54 AM

Dave Taylor did the info page for the 2003 St. Thomas plant tour at crownvic.net. He emailed me yesterday saying that they'd love to have us join up with them. He said he'd post a message here as soon as he had the page for the 2004 tour ready. I asked if he could post it here.

As soon as we get the dates we can mark our calendars and start talking about 'convoys'.

Woo-hoo! We's goin' to da plant! :banana:

MapleLeafMerc

12-03-2003, 09:51 AM

2004 is the 100th anniversary of Ford Canada (Aug 17). Maybe they'll have something to mark this with on the tour!

MapleLeafMerc

12-23-2003, 10:15 AM

Dave Taylor, the organizer of the last two STAP meets, just posted at crownvic.net saying that the next meet will be in June 2004. Mark your calendars!!

Maybe the Marauder owners in this area and points east would want to join up at my office in Brampton, so that we can "convoy" down to the plant.

Haggis

12-23-2003, 12:10 PM

Keep us informed as to the date. I check with Mapquest and it stated that it less then 10 hours away. If everything works out with our schedules LadyHawke and I could be part of the Mercury Marauder.net Canadian Invasion Force. The last time I was in Canda was in 1989 and it was by accident, but that is a story for another day.

MI2QWK4U

12-23-2003, 12:16 PM

What will be fun if it happens is the CVN group goes to the St Thomas Drag strip after the tour.....I couldnt stay and play after the tour this year, but I plan on hanging around and making a few passes if they do it again this year. I for one am looking forward to going head to head with some other modified Marauders and see what happens....let the carnage begin! Oooops...got a little carried away there for a minute!

yorks

01-01-2004, 03:09 PM

It's a short drive for me so I plan on being there. Thanks MLM for the heads up.

Haggis

01-07-2004, 06:29 AM

Any more Information on the St. Thomas plant tour in June, with or without the CV group. Enquiring minds want to know.

Thanks.

MapleLeafMerc

01-07-2004, 07:29 AM

Dave Taylor at crownvic.net just told me yesterday that the STAP meet will be the weekend of June 24-27. I don't have many details but they will have the plant tour Friday, June 25 at 9:30 am and the drag strip that night.

He's putting the finishing touches on a web page for it and will advise when it is ready.

TripleTransAm

01-07-2004, 09:33 AM

...which is a holiday weekend here in Quebec. Things are looking up! :up:

MapleLeafMerc

01-07-2004, 07:13 PM

You mean you'd skip the SJB parade???? ;)

TripleTransAm

01-07-2004, 07:41 PM

Hey, don't knock it, MLM. Different strokes for different folks, eh? :up: Besides, if you haven't partied on SJB day, you seriously are missing something. There is just something so deep about thousands and thousands of people on a hillside park sitting/laying on the grass with more-than-ample beer supplies and dozens of popular artists playing on an outdoor stage until the wee hours of the morning. Very peaceful, and very moving.

French Quebecers are in general a very peaceful and very proud lot. Proud of their language, proud of their heritage, proud of their culture... it's a shame the overall experience had to be tainted with the ugly colors of separatism, but I guess it's tough to understand the French Canadian's anguish until you've heard their side of the story. I still don't support the extremism, but at least now I understand it. And understanding is the first step to healing most rifts and conflicts...

That being said, no I wouldn't mind giving up one party in favor of participating in another in the company of my fellow Marauderers! ;)

MapleLeafMerc

01-08-2004, 10:09 AM

Sorry, Steve, I didn't intend to belittle SJB, just funnin'. What you describe does sound like a good time. That's why we have the expression joie de vivre!

Glad to hear that you'll be coming down, hopefully with Bobby and whoever else can come! Does it sound practical/useful to meet here in Brampton for the final leg?

Dr Caleb

01-08-2004, 10:24 AM

I really want to come, but I really want to go to Indy too. I'm torn.

The distances involved just won't allow me to do both in my car, but I'm keeping my options open and will try to do both.

Haggis

01-08-2004, 10:32 AM

Originally posted by Dr Caleb
I really want to come, but I really want to go to Indy too. I'm torn.

The distances involved just won't allow me to do both in my car, but I'm keeping my options open and will try to do both.

Do what Marty does, trailer it.

TripleTransAm

01-08-2004, 07:54 PM

Originally posted by MapleLeafMerc
Sorry, Steve, I didn't intend to belittle SJB, just funnin'. What you describe does sound like a good time. That's why we have the expression joie de vivre!

No worries, it wasn't a rebuttal, just an FYI. Seems the loudmouthed politicians and media freaks love to harp on the cultural clashes and animosity... I guess it's what keeps them in the papers. You CAN be a proud Quebecer without being anti-English or anti-western-Canada... I'm of the opinion that most people here agree with this. And just because I'm sympathetic to the plight of the french Canadian in the 200-odd years leading up to the 1970s, doesn't mean I have any sympathy to those turkeys who went around kidnapping (and killing) diplomats and blowing up mailboxes (and at least 1 cop).

My (french-Canadian) co-worker's father-in-law applied to work in a Toronto financial institution sometime in the 60s. They offered him the job, on the condition he change his name from Boisvert to Greenwood (the english translation of his family name). He told them to stuff it and came back to Quebec (where he did quite well, actually). That in itself should explain a lot of the animosity in some folks...

Right... enough history...

Brampton... there's a Hooters there, right? If so, then I know where it is... should make it easy to meet up as we fly down the 401 West. Once we get to St. Thomas, though, I'm lost... I only went as far as the drag strip (Sparta?) and know nothing much about the town itself. Besides, Brampton will make a fine meeting location to meet up with Dr.Caleb... ;)

Dr Caleb

01-09-2004, 08:33 AM

Brampton is do-able. It's been some time (15 years?) since I drove the 401, and I haven't even consulted a map to be sure of where St Thomas is. SW of Toronto is where I'm guessing, along the Hamilton corridor. After a 4000km drive, a couple hundred really doesn't concern me :)

Might even be timed well. I think my cousin is getting Married in MTL on or near that time.

MapleLeafMerc

01-09-2004, 12:29 PM

Originally posted by TripleTransAm
Brampton... there's a Hooters there, right? If so, then I know where it is... should make it easy to meet up as we fly down the 401 West. Once we get to St. Thomas, though, I'm lost... I only went as far as the drag strip (Sparta?) and know nothing much about the town itself. Besides, Brampton will make a fine meeting location to meet up with Dr.Caleb... ;)

Yes, there is a Hooters here, on Queen St. just east of Kennedy Rd. We are about 2 miles east of it. I'll mention it again when the date gets closer, but there is a pdf map on our website of my office location (follow the How to Find Us link) http://www.ehpope.com

As far as getting to St Thomas, the crownvic.net site will have the St Thomas page that includes local maps.

Larry

MapleLeafMerc

01-09-2004, 12:45 PM

Originally posted by Dr Caleb
Brampton is do-able. It's been some time (15 years?) since I drove the 401, and I haven't even consulted a map to be sure of where St Thomas is. SW of Toronto is where I'm guessing, along the Hamilton corridor. After a 4000km drive, a couple hundred really doesn't concern me :)

Might even be timed well. I think my cousin is getting Married in MTL on or near that time.

If you go to Mtl first, you'd be able to hook up with TTA. If not, you would either stay on the Trans Canada into Ontario, taking 17 to North Bay, 11 south to 400, and then 407 west to Brampton. OR you could go south from Winnipeg through Minn, Wisc, Michigan, I75 south to Detroit, then 401 east to London. There is a group in Detroit that will be coming.

St Thomas is about half way between Windsor and Toronto (about 125 miles from both); Hamilton is about 50 miles south west of Toronto.

TripleTransAm

01-09-2004, 07:38 PM

Originally posted by MapleLeafMerc
Yes, there is a Hooters here, on Queen St. just east of Kennedy Rd. We are about 2 miles east of it.

Okay, then I know where Brampton is. ;)

Back in summer 2001 (I think), I got out of work early one afternoon and decided to drive over to Brampton to meet up with some local F-body buddies who were having a get-together. Just hopped in the GTA, headed west... ;) had dinner, hopped back in the car, fueled up, and got back home by 2:00am or so, and posted pictures I took. ;)

With the birth of my son in October 2001, stuff like that has kind of become rarer...

But there is something about driving my GTA that just makes me want to stay on a highway. I can't count the number of times I've found myself saying "Oh gee, I think I missed my exit... oh look, next exit: Cornwall... cool"

MapleLeafMerc

01-09-2004, 10:51 PM

Originally posted by TripleTransAm
Okay, then I know where Brampton is. ;)

Back in summer 2001 (I think), I got out of work early one afternoon and decided to drive over to Brampton to meet up with some local F-body buddies who were having a get-together. Just hopped in the GTA, headed west... ;) had dinner, hopped back in the car, fueled up, and got back home by 2:00am or so, and posted pictures I took. ;)

Who were you with?

With the birth of my son in October 2001, stuff like that has kind of become rarer...

Bet you're glad we have 3- count 'em- 3 seat anchors! BTW, why DOES a Marauder have THREE seat anchors? For triplets?!!

But there is something about driving my GTA that just makes me want to stay on a highway. I can't count the number of times I've found myself saying "Oh gee, I think I missed my exit... oh look, next exit: Cornwall... cool"

Right on. I've driven the family to Fla twice and loved every mile. Just pick up the latest Along The I-75 book and off you go.

jabird56

01-10-2004, 06:19 AM

TripleTransAm

01-10-2004, 12:06 PM

Originally posted by MapleLeafMerc
Who were you with?

Wife was at work, so I just made sure she was okay with taking the train (not subway, no subway service out here in the West end of MTL). So I hopped in the car, and about 6 hours later I was there. No sweat. Had a chicken burger and a coke, shot the crap with the Toronto F-guys, hopped back in the car, and come to think of it I must have gotten back to MTL by 3 am, since I believe i must have left at around 9:30pm.

I've done it many times... with my GTA and WS6... surprising them at club barbecues, end-of-season banquets, drag days at St.Thomas or Cayuga (er, excuse me, I mean Toronto Motorsports Park ;) ).

Last big trip was, surprisingly, with my family, last October to Hershey. Worked out well, to my surprise. I thought my long-distance driving days were over, at least for a while...

TripleTransAm

01-10-2004, 12:07 PM

Originally posted by jabird56
Just a note to anybody planning to go up into the North land, get with your insurance agent and get a "Canadian" insurance card. Your standard U.S. policy card isn't good enough if your stopped by Canadians finest.

Odd. This is the first I've ever heard of this. How did you hear of this?

MapleLeafMerc

01-10-2004, 01:58 PM

I've never heard any of our US visitors mention it either.

MapleLeafMerc

01-10-2004, 05:15 PM

Dave Taylor just gave me a bit more info on STAP 2004.

His group leaves MA on Thursday, June 24 (8:30 am) and arrives St Thomas that evening. The plant tour (18 yr old min) is Friday, June 25, 9:30 am. He said the dragstrip will be open to us Friday afternoon and through until 10pm. It will also be open for us Saturday evening as well (don't know times yet).

The Best Western has a special rate for STAP attendees.

-He added that the border crossing knows they are coming, as do the OPP! Maybe they get an escort!

I have asked what their route is, so that people along the way would have an opportunity to join up if they wanted. I'm assuming he crosses at Buffalo/Ft Erie or Niagara Falls ON/NY, but don't know if they take the QEW/403/401 (past Hamilton) or something like Highway 3, which goes more directly west and eventually takes you right into St Thomas.

As I've mentioned before, I am suggesting that any members who would like to are welcome to meet at my office in Brampton (near Toronto). There are lots of places to eat in the area and it would give people a chance to stretch their legs. Plus it would give us a opportunity to muster a convoy! If this sounds useful, someone please second it; then I can stop saying could/should! I would be happy to keep track of who is coming through/to Brampton.

One more thing- last years STAP website mentioned everyone in the convoy having an FRS radio to keep everyone in contact. When Dave gets the site up, all this info will be there, plus local maps etc. etc.

Further details as this story develops :)

SergntMac

01-10-2004, 05:55 PM

I've been reluctant to reply here, this feels more like a funeral than a parade, but that's okay. This is what we do, ya know?

I'm in...As long as I can race after the services, it's stupid with me.

Feels more Irish now than before, we can party with honor. Yeah, I'm in. I'll be up there. My Girl Patches wants to visit her home anyway...

MI2QWK4U

01-10-2004, 07:30 PM

Sarge, do you want to hook up with the michigan crew that is heading there? Also look forward to something the michigan group is working on setting up for that weekend here in the detroit/dearborn area. I really dont want to derail this thread, but just want folks to know that for anyone going to st thomas, we are trying to set up something the day after. I will post when things fall into place.

MapleLeafMerc

01-11-2004, 03:47 PM

Originally posted by SergntMac
I've been reluctant to reply here, this feels more like a funeral than a parade, but that's okay. This is what we do, ya know?

Oh ye of little faith... I saw a story about the S/C 2005-1/2 Marauder. It must be true ;)

I'm in...As long as I can race after the services, it's stupid with me.

Feels more Irish now than before, we can party with honor. Yeah, I'm in. I'll be up there. My Girl Patches wants to visit her home anyway...

Patches' home is...?

MapleLeafMerc

01-11-2004, 03:50 PM

Originally posted by MI2QWK4U
Sarge, do you want to hook up with the michigan crew that is heading there? Also look forward to something the michigan group is working on setting up for that weekend here in the detroit/dearborn area. I really dont want to derail this thread, but just want folks to know that for anyone going to st thomas, we are trying to set up something the day after. I will post when things fall into place.

Does it involve free beer and/or T-shirts? ;)

If I'm in St Thom, Motor City is handy, man!

Dr Caleb

01-13-2004, 10:44 AM

Odd. This is the first I've ever heard of this. How did you hear of this?

I think he's referring to the incident in Nova Scotia where a cop pulled over a boxer from Texas driving a Mustang a couple years ago, and arrested him because the cop thought the man's insurance card was fake. The car was towed and the man detained. The man was black, and sued on human rights violations and racial discrimination, and recently won.

Of course, this reflects in the American media as applying to all cops across all of Canada.

MapleLeafMerc

01-13-2004, 11:05 AM

I think he's referring to the incident in Nova Scotia where a cop pulled over a boxer from Texas driving a Mustang a couple years ago, and arrested him because the cop thought the man's insurance card was fake. The car was towed and the man detained. The man was black, and sued on human rights violations and racial discrimination, and recently won.

Of course, this reflects in the American media as applying to all cops across all of Canada.

Thanks Glenn.

Cooper

01-15-2004, 05:18 PM

I made the STAP trip in 2002 & 2003 and I'll be going again this year. This is a "not to be missed" event. The tour of the plant is fascinating and worth the trip all on its own! When you watch how your Marauder was built, it will give you a new appreciation (and love) for your car.

This isn't a quickie 10 minute Disneyworld-type attraction. It takes over an hour and you see every aspect of the assembly; from the initial stage to the point where the cars roll off the line. We are all broken into small groups and are guided by retired plant employees. These people KNOW the cars and are extremely knowlegable. They can pretty much answer any question you throw at them.

Since I've attended both of the previous trips to STAP; while you are waiting for Dave Taylor's website to be posted I'd be happy to answer any questions that people might have regarding the trip. Shoot me an e-mail at cooper.eastman@comcast.net

TripleTransAm

01-15-2004, 07:44 PM

These people KNOW the cars and are extremely knowlegable. They can pretty much answer any question you throw at them.

Heh heh heh (insert evil laugh here)...

Looks like I'd better start jotting down some juicy ones...

Bigdogjim

01-15-2004, 08:00 PM

Sounds like something we should hook-up and do?

Cooper

01-15-2004, 08:00 PM

Originally Posted by Cooper:
"These people KNOW the cars and are extremely knowlegable. They can pretty much answer any question you throw at them".

Heh heh heh (insert evil laugh here)...

Looks like I'd better start jotting down some juicy ones...

:D :shake: LOL! Should have known I'd need to specify "questions about CARS"!

Cooper

01-15-2004, 08:08 PM

He's still working on it, but Dave's webpage for the STAP 2004 trip went on line tonight.

STAP 2004 TRIP (http://www30.brinkster.com/dftaylor/STAP/index.html)

:banana2:

TripleG

01-16-2004, 06:34 AM

Haggis

01-16-2004, 07:11 AM

Chris and I are planning on being part of the Canadian Invasion in June, are there any more from the D.C. area that would like to hook up. We can then meet up with th people from Pa. and then meet the rest at the border. Do you think we will worry the Customs agents if we get 20 to 50 or more Marauders rolling across the border? :coolman:

Does anyone know when we need to start making reservations for this and who do we need to contact for hotels and tour?

Dr Caleb

01-16-2004, 09:50 AM

Do you think we will worry the Customs agents if we get 20 to 50 or more Marauders rolling across the border? :coolman:

So long as you don't plan on the traditional role of the "Marauder" and refrain from plundering and pillaging, I think it'll be stupid with them. :)
:cool4:

Cooper

01-16-2004, 04:42 PM

Do you think we will worry the Customs agents if we get 20 to 50 or more Marauders rolling across the border? :coolman:

Does anyone know when we need to start making reservations for this and who do we need to contact for hotels and tour?

Haggis: Not to worry. It is actually an advantage for a large group to arrive together. Customs will be expecting us. One of the guys who reaches customs first tells the agent that we are a convoy all traveling together. Drivers and occupants of each car are questioned briefly and allowed to cross. I think due to the conspicuously large size of the group, the fact that Customs has advanced notice that we are coming, and they already know what our purpose is for entering Canada- it makes the border crossing flow quite smoothly. :coolman:

As far as hotel reservations are concerned- the sooner you make them the better. (If necessary, you can even cancel your reservation on arrival day).
Here's a link directly to the hotel we'll be staying at and you can book your reservations on line... :D
Best Western Stoneridge Inn & Conference Center- London, Ontario (http://book.bestwestern.com/bestwestern/productInfo.do?propertyCode=66 085)

MapleLeafMerc

01-16-2004, 04:55 PM

Thanks for the info Cooper!

Haggis

01-16-2004, 10:10 PM

So long as you don't plan on the traditional role of the "Marauder" and refrain from plundering and pillaging, I think it'll be stupid with them. :)
:cool4:

Man, you take all the fun out of it. I don't get to many chances to paint tatoos on my face, wear my kilt and wave my basket hilt around anymore since I got married. It will also be the first time I will enter Canada legally.
http://smilies.sofrayt.com/1/950/viking.gif

Thanks Cooper, who me worry nah. Was J/K.

schuvwj

01-17-2004, 07:51 AM

Cooper when you get in the plant please watch for the person who is installing the trany snap rings for the clutch pack. Be sure to tell him we sure appreciate his inability to properly assemble our transmissions!

If your lucky you'll see the Assembly Line Processor during your tour. Thank him as well because he developed the inadequate assembly process which caused the assembley dammage.

I'm sure both of them will be at the coffee machine.

Sorry just venting!

jgc61sr2002

01-17-2004, 08:41 AM

Cooper

01-17-2004, 10:30 AM

I believe the transmissions are built at another facility and are installed as a completed unit.

That is correct. The engines and trannys are already built before they arrive at the plant. Parts come into the plant by truck or rail. (There are actually train tracks and box cars inside the building. The people (and robots) assemble the parts into a car.

MapleLeafMerc

01-18-2004, 12:48 PM

Just made my room res at the Stoneridge Inn in London, ON. Group rate is $79.00/night Cdn (about $62 US). They only have a few rooms booked so far but I'm sure that will change. ;)

Their phone is 519-652-6022 or 888--471-2378.

STAPrap

01-18-2004, 02:53 PM

I think all you guys should go regardless of which site you prefer to be a member of.I belong to both myself because I can learn a lot about the "Panther" platform.
Anyway,cheers boys and enjoy those cars of yours...

DD :)

MERCMAN

01-20-2004, 02:41 PM

Just a note to anybody planning to go up into the North land, get with your insurance agent and get a "Canadian" insurance card. Your standard U.S. policy card isn't good enough if your stopped by Canadians finest.
Got my policy renewal in the mail today here is the 411 on insurance

"If you are planning a trip to Canada and will be driving while in Canada, please note that Canadian law requires you to carry a Canada Non-Resident Interprovince Motor Vehicle Liability Insurance card as proof of insurance"

That is taken off of my policy renewal statement from Prudential.

Just thought I would post that for those going to the STAP event from the US :up:

MapleLeafMerc

01-20-2004, 06:36 PM

Got my policy renewal in the mail today here is the 411 on insurance

"If you are planning a trip to Canada and will be driving while in Canada, please note that Canadian law requires you to carry a Canada Non-Resident Interprovince Motor Vehicle Liability Insurance card as proof of insurance"

That is taken off of my policy renewal statement from Prudential.

Just thought I would post that for those going to the STAP event from the US :up:

Thank you for the info, mercman. It sounds like our bureaucrats "going for the gold" again.

Haggis

01-21-2004, 08:17 AM

Got my policy renewal in the mail today here is the 411 on insurance

"If you are planning a trip to Canada and will be driving while in Canada, please note that Canadian law requires you to carry a Canada Non-Resident Interprovince Motor Vehicle Liability Insurance card as proof of insurance"

That is taken off of my policy renewal statement from Prudential.

Just thought I would post that for those going to the STAP event from the US :up:

Thanks for the info, Mercman, I will be sure to contact my Insurance Agent before I leave.

MapleLeafMerc, I like your Avatar.

MapleLeafMerc

02-09-2004, 09:38 PM

Wow. I Had to dig into the archives to find this thread. Could it be made a sticky or something? Thanks ;)

STAP (St Thomas Assembly Plant, birthplace of the Marauder) Meet/Plant tour goes again this June!

I just wanted to remind anyone who wants to meet in St Thomas, Ontario this June to make some inquiries/plans soon. It started as a trip by a bunch of Crown Vic guys from Mass. two years ago, and 2004 will be the largest Panther platform meet ever. (OK maybe just in Canada!)

Plant tour, drag race, and drink some beer. What's not to like?

The STAP info/registration website:

http://www30.brinkster.com/dftaylor/stap/index.html

The STAP forum at CVN:

http://www.crownvic.net/ubbthreads/postlist.php?Cat=&Board=STAP

I posted info on the hotel they booked last year earlier in this thread. I think there were only a couple of Marauders from Michigan there last year- {does best John Belushi 'Animal House' impression} "WHO'S WITH ME??!!!!!!!!!!"

Haggis

06-02-2004, 08:41 AM

Due to a conflicting work schedule with those dates, Ladyhawke and I will not be able to attend the STAP tour in June. Hope everbody has a good time!!

TripleG

06-10-2004, 06:39 AM

Things just didn't work out. Sure would have been a good time.

George Galske

QWK SVT

06-10-2004, 06:34 PM

I'm coming! Now,all that's left to do is to sign up...

MapleLeafMerc

06-23-2004, 09:52 PM

STAP, here we come.... :beer: :beer: :beer: :up: :up: :up: :up:

QWK SVT

06-24-2004, 07:07 PM

STAP, here we come.... :beer: :beer: :beer: :up: :up: :up: :up:
Anxiously awaiting... Though the early wake up is a bit of a killer, I think it'll be worth it.:rock:

bigslim

06-24-2004, 07:14 PM

Some of us Motor City guys and company will see you tommorrow.

chrish

07-18-2004, 04:24 PM

How many cars built per day; work around the clock?

STAPrap

07-18-2004, 04:34 PM

We make around 850-900 units realistically/24 hours=2, 8 Hour shifts!

DD :burnout:

Canadasvt

01-16-2005, 08:58 AM

Any pics from this event:confused:

Canadasvt

02-10-2006, 07:59 AM

Okay, it's been over a year. I guess there are no pics.

STAPrap, is your job secure at St.Thomas with one shift? If you have to come up to OAC, we'll welcome you brother:beer:

STAPrap

02-10-2006, 05:33 PM

Hey :) ,......no,I don't have enough years in to make the cut to one shift......thanks for the welcoming email......I wonder if anyone will end up at OAC?We'll see what happens in a bit here once the union meets up with Dearborn to get the particulars.

DD:beer:

Serge

06-08-2006, 05:01 PM

So, anyone coming to STAP this year? Only one week left.

Canadasvt

06-08-2006, 08:32 PM

So, anyone coming to STAP this year? Only one week left.
Unfortunately this is the first I've heard of it on this site:confused:

Maybe next year if I start planning for it now:beer:

grampaws

06-09-2006, 03:24 PM

Unfortunately this is the first I've heard of it on this site:confused:

Maybe next year if I start planning for it now:beer:

Ditto!! an earlier heads up would have been nice!!:alone:
no can do ..Grandson' and motherinlaws Bday already..
planned...

jimlam56

06-09-2006, 05:14 PM

So what are the dates?

grampaws

06-09-2006, 06:32 PM

Ontario Quebec crownvic ownersclub website
http://www.freewebs.com/oqcvo

thursday june 15th to sunday june 18th
actuall tour Fri june 16th 9:00am to 1:30pm
Drags friday evening...
The other details on Crownvic.net

Serge

02-06-2007, 09:41 AM

Just wanted to give everyone a heads up that STAP meet will be happening this year. It will probably be a bit different this time though. The plant went on a 4 day work week so friday tours are no longer possible. Right now we are considering several options:

We will either have a plant tour and meet on Thursday, June 14th and then a night of drag racing from 6-9 p.m. for our group exclusively at St. Thomas dragway.

Or, we can have a meet on Saturday, June 23rd and go drag racing from 6-10 p. m.

Or a third option for those coming from far away is to have a plant tour and a meet on Thursday, June 21st with a night of drag racing from 6-9 p.m. Then those who wish can stay in Canada for the weekend and go to Crown Vic day at the drag strip on the 23rd for more racing.

At the moment we are getting a show of hands to see what option would be favoured the most. So far, it looks like we will be having a meet on the 23rd and the tour will be omitted this year. BBQ lunch and drag racing at night still sounds fun though. I will update this thread ones we have an exact date set.

STAPrap

02-06-2007, 09:51 AM

Hi,the 4 day work week may be ended before the month of June just so you know.

AND,do you guys and Crownvic.net guys meet the same time at STAP for tours?

cheers,

DD:)

Master

02-06-2007, 10:00 AM

I'd be interested in taking a drive if there was a tour. Actaully not too interested in racing, but a tour and meet would be a hoot.
Let me know?

Serge

02-06-2007, 10:03 AM

Hi,the 4 day work week may be ended before the month of June just so you know.

AND,do you guys and Crownvic.net guys meet the same time at STAP for tours?

cheers,

DD:)

Well, this was the information that I got from Judy Albert. If we could have a tour on the 22nd, that would be the ideal solution because we would be able to go to the track in the same day and it would be perfect for everybody.

STAPrap

02-06-2007, 10:06 AM

....yah keep in touch with her of course,she'll know more by April or so.

DD:)

Serge

02-06-2007, 10:14 AM

....yah keep in touch with her of course,she'll know more by April or so.

DD:)

Last I've heard she's retired 2 weeks ago so I am not in touch with Ann Antunes. I will contact her with regards to the date since I was unaware that 4 day work week will be over.

Master

02-06-2007, 10:14 AM

With the lincolns moving back to Canada I wouldn't be surprised by a return to full schedules. You'll need the extra hours with twice the cars to build. Am I wrong?

Canadasvt

02-06-2007, 10:21 AM

Anything sounds great to me:cool:

STAPrap

02-06-2007, 10:23 AM

Yah, Ann will keep you up to date with that.She is cute too eh,nice girl!

For the 4-day work week,it could be changed due to order amounts and the fact that the plant is going to be shuffling a lot of people on jobs.People from A and B shifts are now going to be mated as one shift so this will tie up production some what!

I believe the Town Car Job 1 date is around August 7th 2007,but that can change.

DD

Serge

02-12-2007, 05:20 AM

I received a new email from STAP today and it's not looking good. I will just post a quote,

Good Morning,
Hope all is well with you. In regards to the tour you would like to
schedule for June 22, as of April 5th, the plant will not being
scheduling tours until September due to the plant going to one shift
and
the Town Car launch preparations. Sorry for any inconvenience this by
cause. It you have any further questions, please feel free to contact
me directly.

This means that the tour will not be happening. Because of this new development, we will be having a meet on Saturday, June 23rd followed by a night of racing. Exact meet location is to be determined but we can meet initially in STAP parking lot where all prior tours were held.

Serge

06-02-2007, 06:20 PM

A bunch of CVNers are getting together for a BBQ and a night of drag racing at St. Thomas dragway on June 23rd. Anyone is welcome to join us.

So, as of right now the details of the meet are as follows:

Date: June 23, 2007

Meet Location: Pinafore park, St. Thomas Ontario Link. (http://www.pinaforepark.com/about.html)
Time: 11:30 a.m. - 12 p.m. aka noon.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v292/PoliceInterceptor/map.jpg

Drag Racing Location: St. Thomas Dragway, St. Thomas, Ontario Link. (http://www.stthomasdragway.com/map_to_track.html)
Time: 6:00 p.m - 10 p.m.

Here is map of key points. STAP was placed on there only for reference. There will NOT be a tour this year. Link. (http://maps.google.ca/maps/ms?ie=UTF8&oe=UTF-8&hl=en&q=&msa=0&msid=101485936348604735253.000 001122f9bc0309e603&ll=42.76239,-81.151886&spn=0.184507,0.32135&z=12&om=1)

Those who wish can meet us at the strip at 6 p.m. or join the convoy from the meet.

Master

06-02-2007, 07:10 PM

When they agree to give us a tour, I'll pack the 'rauder up and be there with bells on.

STAPrap

06-03-2007, 06:07 AM

....I am glad you guys are at least meeting up this year that is great.Pinafore Park is a nice park I use to play baseball there.
For me I am busy the entire day June 23rd other wise I'd show up to meet you guys finally.That's ok maybe next year!

Have fun gentleman,

DD:beer:

Serge

06-11-2007, 02:33 PM

We got 9 people from CVN and OQCVO so far. We get a Crown Vic day at the dragway too. Anyone decided to join us?

Canadasvt

06-11-2007, 08:18 PM

I am seriously considering it. Just trying to move some other dates around. :)

Aren Jay

06-15-2007, 07:28 PM

I do believe I live to far away.

Serge

06-16-2007, 06:58 PM

Lol, yea doubt it will be worth it for some laughs and drag racing. :lol: If there are any guys in Ontario that are considering it, make up your mind soon because there is just one week left. If anyone wants to meet up and convoy, let me know. It's less than 3 hour drive for me from Fort Erie, I will be taking QEW to 403 and then 401. Those who are in GTA or Hamilton will be even less.

Canadasvt

06-21-2007, 05:58 PM

I am seriously considering it. Just trying to move some other dates around. :)

Maybe next time. The wife and kids won out and we're going down to Poultryfest in Smithville with the SVT club this Saturday. It's better than it may sound. http://www.poultryfest.ca/pdfs/carshow.pdf

Serge

06-22-2007, 05:47 PM

If anyone still plans to join us tomorrow and has FRS 2 way radios, we will be using channel 3 to communicate.

Serge

02-04-2010, 06:27 PM

Just a heads up, we are doing a tour ones again this year. It is possibly the last time we will be going to St. Thomas before the Panther platform demise in 2011.

More info on CVN.

http://www.crownvic.net/ubbthreads/ubbthreads.php?ubb=postlist&Board=36&page=1

http://www.crownvic.net/ubbthreads/ubbthreads.php?ubb=showflat&Number=1696747#Post1696747

If you wish to get on the tour, you can PM me through here or CVN and send the deposit to the Paypal link listed in the CVN thread. Tour spots are going fast and ones they are gone, they are gone.

JUST 1BULLITT

02-04-2010, 07:21 PM

WOW! THAT'd be very cool! THANKS Serge!! I REALLY WANTED To go and STILL WANT to go; such a bummer on even the thought of our beloved Panther Factory shuttering up for good!! UGH!! :bigcry: :bows: :confused: :help::eek: (I said I'd go before; but let me see IF reality lets me put my money where my mouth is on this one!! BUT thanks for bringing this up to our attention again Serge! :beer:

Serge

06-13-2010, 02:43 PM

So, anyone coming out this Friday?

a_d_a_m

12-02-2010, 09:33 PM

I'm coming to STAP '11!!!

SC Cheesehead

12-03-2010, 07:29 AM

Are they gonna have one?

What's the date?

Krytin

12-03-2010, 08:21 AM

Are they gonna have one?

What's the date?

+1 - Are they having a closing ceremony?

a_d_a_m

12-03-2010, 10:54 AM

A date hasn't been announced yet.

But last year they said Panther production was going to run through August, and we could come back. The CVN tours have historically been in June.

Someone already suggested being there for the last Panther coming off of the line. I have nothing to do with picking the date or contacting Ford, but from a personal standpoint, I doubt they will let a tour in on the last day for a host of reasons. It would be awesome though.

Rockettman

12-03-2010, 11:10 AM

What is the cost of going on this tour?
June 18th 2011?

SC Cheesehead

12-03-2010, 11:16 AM

Serge

12-04-2010, 06:10 PM

What is the cost of going on this tour?
June 18th 2011?

The tour always has been free.

SC Cheesehead

12-05-2010, 07:43 AM

What is the cost of going on this tour?
June 18th 2011?

The tour always has been free.

So, is June 18th the date? That's a Saturday.

MAROGER

12-05-2010, 08:16 AM

Count me in!! Keep the info coming

Serge

12-05-2010, 08:53 AM

So, is June 18th the date? That's a Saturday.

That is NOT the date. The official date has not yet been set. It definitely won't be on a Saturday though as the plant it closed. Previously it has been scheduled on Friday so chances are it will be June 17. I will keep you posted once I know more.

SC Cheesehead

12-05-2010, 11:10 AM

That is NOT the date. The official date has not yet been set. It definitely won't be on a Saturday though as the plant it closed. Previously it has been scheduled on Friday so chances are it will be June 17. I will keep you posted once I know more.

Thanks for the clarification.

Would be really neat to get up there for the tour this year. Given the distance I've got to travel, will prolly make a week's vacation of it and do some other sightseeing.

Mr. Man

12-05-2010, 09:19 PM

As long as it doesn't interfere with Carlisle we'd try and make it

Loco1234

12-06-2010, 10:28 AM

Ya same here. as long as it doesn't interfere with Carisle it would be a great opportunity to see the plant.

Canadasvt

12-06-2010, 12:02 PM

I remember when the last truck rolled off the Ontario Truck Plant (home of the Lightning). Some brothers and sisters were clapping and I thought 'You idiots, you're clapping people out of a job'.
Thankfully I'm now next door at Oakville Assembly Complex producing the Ford Edge, Flex and Lincoln MKX, MKT.

Rockettman

12-07-2010, 06:28 AM

June 18th 2011?

Sorry I wasn't implying the date was set....
I thought I'd read that on here.

I was asking - not telling.

Canadasvt

12-11-2010, 09:38 AM

Sorry I wasn't implying the date was set....
I thought I'd read that on here.

I was asking - not telling.

So June 18th 2011? Ha,ha. Just jking :burnout:

FastMerc

12-12-2010, 08:07 AM

As long as it doesn't interfere with Carlisle we'd try and make it
Yes to close together for me!

Dr Caleb

09-16-2011, 11:38 AM

Last Panther rolled off the line yesterday. :(

http://www.edmontonjournal.com/cars/Thomas+Ford+plant+closes/5412093/story.html

Canadasvt

09-16-2011, 08:52 PM

40 of the CAW members from St.Thomas are heading down the highway to The Oakville Assembly Complex where I've been for over 26 years. For what a house costs in Oakville I could have lived like a king in St.Thomas.

From this:
http://media.thestar.topscms.com/images/c1/d3/62eacee148ce9cf6b35b2a0b56f8.j peg
To this:
http://media.wheels.topscms.com/images/9d/6d/c6303c4a493381c1dd171d6d5692.j peg