New MM owner here!

[IwantmyMMnow!]

Greetings everyone! I'm in the process of buying a silver 2003 MM (55.5K miles); sent the signed paperwork back to dealer today. I'm in SC and car is in NM. I have many, many questions to ask and am hoping for some help from all the experts out there. Firstly, does anyone know of a reliable, somewhat inexpensive shipping service I can use to get my MM from NM to my house? Also, are there any 'you need to do...' things when I get my MM? That's all I'll ask for now...

A little about me: In the Air Force, MSgt (E-7), will hit 20 years in May. I've been wanting a MM for 4 years now; next week I turn 40, so this is my b-day present to myself. Originally from Charlotte, NC. I'm hoping I can make the Marauder event scheduled for October.

Okay, one more question...Anyone interested in buying a 2001 VW Jetta VR6? I bought it brand new in Oct 2000, has 135K miles, every bell and whistle offered, black with biege/tan leather interior, and has been well maintained. I need to clean 'er up a bit. Has never been in accident, has about 3 or 4 dings, none larger than a quarter. Bought new tires 3 months ago. 4 years in Mass has put half a dozen 1/2 inch chips on front of hood, though...I swear they use gravel to winterrize the roads! It's been a great car for me...still has good power/acceleration and gets 20/27mpg. I'm not saying it's showroom condition, but I get a lot of 'wow's when I tell people it's 10 years old.

I hope to have my MM sitting in my driveway by next Wednesday....can't wait to see MY F***ING MARAUDER and showing it off!!!! I've only seen a couple on the road since I moved here in 2007...

:beer:

[fastblackmerc]

Greetings everyone! I'm in the process of buying a silver 2003 MM (55.5K miles); sent the signed paperwork back to dealer today. I'm in SC and car is in NM. I have many, many questions to ask and am hoping for some help from all the experts out there. Firstly, does anyone know of a reliable, somewhat inexpensive shipping service I can use to get my MM from NM to my house? Also, are there any 'you need to do...' things when I get my MM? That's all I'll ask for now...

A little about me: In the Air Force, MSgt (E-7), will hit 20 years in May. I've been wanting a MM for 4 years now; next week I turn 40, so this is my b-day present to myself. Originally from Charlotte, NC. I'm hoping I can make the Marauder event scheduled for October.

Okay, one more question...Anyone interested in buying a 2001 VW Jetta VR6? I bought it brand new in Oct 2000, has 135K miles, every bell and whistle offered, black with biege/tan leather interior, and has been well maintained. I need to clean 'er up a bit. Has never been in accident, has about 3 or 4 dings, none larger than a quarter. Bought new tires 3 months ago. 4 years in Mass has put half a dozen 1/2 inch chips on front of hood, though...I swear they use gravel to winterrize the roads! It's been a great car for me...still has good power/acceleration and gets 20/27mpg. I'm not saying it's showroom condition, but I get a lot of 'wow's when I tell people it's 10 years old.

I hope to have my MM sitting in my driveway by next Wednesday....can't wait to see MY F***ING MARAUDER and showing it off!!!! I've only seen a couple on the road since I moved here in 2007...

:beer:

I'd fly out and pick it up and drive it back.

[Bluerauder]

Greetings everyone! I'm in the process of buying a silver 2003 MM (55.5K miles); sent the signed paperwork back to dealer today. I'm in SC and car is in NM.

Congrats and welcome :welcome1: to the MM.Net.

[TAKEDOWN]

Congrats and welcome to your new addiction!

[RoyLPita]

Welcome aboard. Enjoy the site and your new ride.

[jsignorelli]

Welcome to the network of MM owners and modifiers. Ford made it good, but we make it more good......gooder......goodest?

Go to some MM events and get to meet some really friendly people.

Jim

[SC Cheesehead]

:welcome:

Where are you located in SC?

[MOTOWN]

:welcome:bud!:wave:great choice on the color;)

[youngrauderlvr]

Welcome to the site. I live in Anderson. There are a couple of others around here. We all need to get together some time.

[JOEMERC]

Enjoy your marauder ,wish there were more on the road ill go monthes at a time without seeing another marauder .i have a sb also.

[rayjay]

Welcome to the site and your Marauder. If you are in the GS area we are down there in Garden City Beach 1st week of July.

[IwantmyMMnow!]

Thanks everyone for the welcome! Just got back from a party at a friends' house...I was pretty hammered but seem to be astonishingly (is that a word?) sober now. I thought about fly out/drive back, but don't have the time and figured it would cost at least $800 between airfare/gas/hotels/food. I live about 30 mins north of Charleston. And I am a Packers Fan! SUPERBOWL CHAMPS, BABY!!!. (Parents are from U.P., moved to Charlotte in '67). I'm sure once I get my MM in the driveway, the questions will be overflowing. Looking forward to picking everyone's brain for ideas...

[LIGHTNIN1]

Congrats on the car and I am sure you will love the car. Check the shippers out good on the web for complaints. Will probably cost you at least that much now to get it to you.

[william s]

Welcome to the site.

[hotford]

Welcome aboard sir............

[HEAVY HITTER]

Welcome to the site!!

[F8LBITEva]

welcome to the forum. I just got mine shipped from Texas to Northern VA in November for $500. By my calculations, by the time you fly out there, drive back, food,gas, hotels along the way its cheaper/safer/easier to ship.These cars are highway cruisers but god forbid you blow a tire on the way that noone stocks or you hit a cactus or armadillo in the middle of the night. Do a little research on shippers, you want to find one that already ships from NM to your state or nearby on a regular basis. Carmax has shippers they deal with all over the country, might want to check with a sales manager to put you in touch with their shipper. Good luck and hopefully youll be looking at this soon!!
http://i304.photobucket.com/albums/nn166/F8LBITEva/2004%20Mercury%20Marauder/DSCN3318.jpg

[vkirkend]

I'd fly out and pick it up and drive it back.

What he said.....

[Ms. Denmark]

:welcome:bud!:wave:great choice on the color;)
Agreed!! :welcome:


Enjoy your marauder ,wish there were more on the road ill go monthes at a time without seeing another marauder .i have a sb also.
So do I! Join the club!!

[wickedmerc]

Welcome to the site bro! Tons of info around here, enjoy!

Thank you for your service to our country :flag:

[SC Cheesehead]

Thanks everyone for the welcome! Just got back from a party at a friends' house...I was pretty hammered but seem to be astonishingly (is that a word?) sober now. I thought about fly out/drive back, but don't have the time and figured it would cost at least $800 between airfare/gas/hotels/food. I live about 30 mins north of Charleston. And I am a Packers Fan! SUPERBOWL CHAMPS, BABY!!!. (Parents are from U.P., moved to Charlotte in '67). I'm sure once I get my MM in the driveway, the questions will be overflowing. Looking forward to picking everyone's brain for ideas...

What da heck, a Packer fan, and a Yooper no less! :banana2:

We've GOT to get together sometime! :up:

[steve fox]

I thought silver birch was only offered on the 2004 model year?

[LANDY]

No, there are some 03 sb out there but they are hard to find.
To the OP, welcome and enjoy your ride

[Marauderman]

:welcome:

Where are you located in SC?


I was gonna say near Charleston AFB--cause he is in the AF.............



Thanks everyone for the welcome! Just got back from a party at a friends' house...I was pretty hammered but seem to be astonishingly (is that a word?) sober now. I thought about fly out/drive back, but don't have the time and figured it would cost at least $800 between airfare/gas/hotels/food. I live about 30 mins north of Charleston. And I am a Packers Fan! SUPERBOWL CHAMPS, BABY!!!. (Parents are from U.P., moved to Charlotte in '67). I'm sure once I get my MM in the driveway, the questions will be overflowing. Looking forward to picking everyone's brain for ideas...

Yep--Looks like I was somewhat right------anyway---welcome and there are a few members a drive from you but still close for an day drive with an MM...

I was at Chas.AFB way back--- BTW--How much you pay for such a low mileage MM--just curious-as well as many others here---


.....and if you're going by Charlotte---give me a holler!!!!!!!!--Tom

[IwantmyMMnow!]

Bear with me until I learn all the ins and outs of using this forum's functions...

Tom, I'm in Charlotte right now (minus the MM, of course). I come up here once sometimes twice a month.

After taxes, the final price was $11,300. I saw the car ad two weekends ago and they were asking $13K...couldn't get a loan, so thought for sure it would be gone. Last weekend searched again and the price had dropped to $11K. I called the dealer first thing Monday AM and asked if it was still there (it was!), and told him I am buying it. Had to use CCs to buy it, but didn't want to miss out on what is shaping up to be an excellent buy after hearing what some of the forum members have been saying.

I'll start beating the tree when I get home tonight to find a carrier...I'm sure the dealer has gotten the papers back and the car is ready to go!

[IwantmyMMnow!]

Back home in SC after spending the weekend in Charlotte and had a thought on the drive home.

Anyone interested in having a small MM event/gathering in the southeast prior to the 'big dance' in PA? Charlotte, Savannah, Jacksonville, Atlanta, maybe even here in Charleston? :cool:

Looks like we've got at least 8 or 9 MM owners in the area, maybe more?

Charleston's a great place to visit for Labor Day weekend...

Kyle
:beer:

[Mr. Man]

Back home in SC after spending the weekend in Charlotte and had a thought on the drive home.

Anyone interested in having a small MM event/gathering in the southeast prior to the 'big dance' in PA? Charlotte, Savannah, Jacksonville, Atlanta, maybe even here in Charleston? :cool:

Looks like we've got at least 8 or 9 MM owners in the area, maybe more?

Charleston's a great place to visit for Labor Day weekend...

Kyle
:beer:
The secret to getting the Carolina Marauders out is to mention there will be beer, free beer works even better.:D:beer:

[IwantmyMMnow!]

I'm a hard liquor man, myself; but I do enjoy a GOOD Black n Tan once in a while. Ever mix Vodka w/Cheerwine? It's pretty good, IMO. However, I learned the hard way why cheap vodka is cheap...

[fastblackmerc]

I thought silver birch was only offered on the 2004 model year?

Nope... SB was offered in both years. Blue was only offered in '03.

[Mike]

Congrats and welcome to the site :beer:

[CBT]

Thanks everyone for the welcome! Just got back from a party at a friends' house...I was pretty hammered but seem to be astonishingly (is that a word?) sober now. I thought about fly out/drive back, but don't have the time and figured it would cost at least $800 between airfare/gas/hotels/food. I live about 30 mins north of Charleston. And I am a Packers Fan! SUPERBOWL CHAMPS, BABY!!!. (Parents are from U.P., moved to Charlotte in '67). I'm sure once I get my MM in the driveway, the questions will be overflowing. Looking forward to picking everyone's brain for ideas...

You're Air Force, hop a MAC flight.

[CBT]

What da heck, a Packer fan, and a Yooper no less! :banana2:

We've GOT to get together sometime! :up:

Oh my. A Packer, a Yooper, and a SB owner. Does the three strike rule apply in this situation?! :lol:

[IwantmyMMnow!]

MAC, SAC, and TAC went out in 93...now it's AMC & ACC. We don't have any regularly scheduled hops from here to NM....Travis AFB, CA occasionally. Anyway, I can't take time off from work right now, so going to get it isn't an option. Believe me, if I could, I would've arleady been out there to get it...

[CBT]

MAC, SAC, and TAC went out in 93...now it's AMC & ACC. We don't have any regularly scheduled hops from here to NM....Travis AFB, CA occasionally. Anyway, I can't take time off from work right now, so going to get it isn't an option. Believe me, if I could, I would've arleady been out there to get it...

Well I tried :D
I live right outside Langley AFB in Hampton VA, if you ever find yourself up this way, holler at me, we'll tear something up.

[BizTerp]

Welcome to the family! Enjoy your new MM. Lots of great folks in the community and really helpful info. on MM.net. Enjoy! :beer:

[IwantmyMMnow!]

Paperwork went through, car is paid for, carrier is lined up (I hope...waiting on confirmation email/call). Found a carrier for $925. Hopefully by the end of the week I'll be looking at my new SB MM!!! :burnout:

This week is gonna go by so s s s l l l o o o w w w www. :(

[SC Cheesehead]

Oh my. A Packer, a Yooper, and a SB owner. Does the grand slam rule apply in this situation?! :lol:

fixed it for you, Casey... :D

[Hotrauder]

Dear IwantmyMMnow,

Beware, Beware, Beware....Danger, extreme danger lurks in your neck of the woods. This, once young; old Jarhead is barely walking testimony to what happens when the Carolina Marauders hit the road. You are dealing with serious wild eyed lunatic pounders when you get balled up with these knuckleheads. Tom and Rex will change your life and not for the better. There is only one redeeming feature....after about a week when life returns to near normal after drinking with these guys you will discover that the grin on your face is permanent. Jim will fix your Marauder and Tom and Cheese will fix your life..be careful it is not permanently. Bring beer muscles, Tom will bring the sandwiches and Cheese will bring the Ankle Biter Ale. Welcome, enjoy your Marauder. See you down the road. Dennis:beer: :D :high5: :burnout:

[CBT]

fixed it for you, Casey... :D

Man that reminds me, I had a Grand Slamwich at Denny's the other evening, yuuuuuuummmmmmmmmmmmmmssssssss !!!!

[Papillon]

Paperwork went through, car is paid for, carrier is lined up (I hope...waiting on confirmation email/call). Found a carrier for $925. Hopefully by the end of the week I'll be looking at my new SB MM!!! :burnout:

This week is gonna go by so s s s l l l o o o w w w www. :(


Yay! Congrats! :banana:
Now all you have to do is make plans to attend Marauderville in Hershey and meet all us characters!!! :D

[CBT]

Paperwork went through, car is paid for, carrier is lined up (I hope...waiting on confirmation email/call). Found a carrier for $925. Hopefully by the end of the week I'll be looking at my new SB MM!!! :burnout:

This week is gonna go by so s s s l l l o o o w w w www. :(

Yeah get used to that whole slow thing! :lol:

[SC Cheesehead]

Dear IwantmyMMnow,

Beware, Beware, Beware....Danger, extreme danger lurks in your neck of the woods. This, once young; old Jarhead is barely walking testimony to what happens when the Carolina Marauders hit the road. You are dealing with serious wild eyed lunatic pounders when you get balled up with these knuckleheads. Tom and Rex will change your life and not for the better. There is only one redeeming feature....after about a week when life returns to near normal after drinking with these guys you will discover that the grin on your face is permanent. Jim will fix your Marauder and Tom and Cheese will fix your life..be careful it is not permanently. Bring beer muscles, Tom will bring the sandwiches and Cheese will bring the Ankle Biter Ale. Welcome, enjoy your Marauder. See you down the road. Dennis:beer: :D :high5: :burnout:

Who me? Must be thinking of somebody else, temperance and virtue are my middle names.... ;)

http://www.bloodydecks.com/forums/images/smilies/720icon.gif

[LUCKY GENE]

welcome to the site, and thank you for your service
:welcome1::flag:

[IwantmyMMnow!]

:puke:

Spent a couple hours getting to know my toilet bowl during the night...got some kind of stomach virus or something. What a way to start the day...especially when it's the day you turn the big 4-0. Well, at least I didn't have to work today...:rolleyes:

[CBT]

:puke:

Spent a couple hours getting to know my toilet bowl during the night...got some kind of stomach virus or something. What a way to start the day...especially when it's the day you turn the big 4-0. Well, at least I didn't have to work today...:rolleyes:

"Son, hung over and Marauderless is no way to go through life." ~CBT~

:beer: Happy Birthday! :beer: I am also 40, but my 20 years of service ended in 2008. Are you doing 30?

[CodeMan]

:wave: Greetings

[CBT]

:wave: Greetings

Your avatar just never gets old, lol

[SC Cheesehead]

Your avatar just never gets old, lol

More than I can say for yours... ;) ----> :D ----> :lol:

[CBT]

More than I can say for yours... ;) ----> :D ----> :lol:
lol, what a terrible thing to say about someone. :cool:

[JBeezy]

Welcome to the site. I'll check with my uncle and see what company he used to ship his mustang from California to Alabama. Only costed him $764

[IwantmyMMnow!]

I'm trying to convince myself to stay in just long enough to get full MSgt retirement pay! (Nov 2012)

[SC Cheesehead]

lol, what a terrible thing to say about someone. :cool:

Just like a MLB Umpire, bubba; I calls 'em as I sees 'em... :D

[PonyUP]

Just like a MLB Umpire, bubba; I calls 'em as I sees 'em... :D

Wait, does that mean you BLOW......calls? especially with a perfect game on the line

[IwantmyMMnow!]

Getting a little POed right now...I have a MM that's been mine for 48 hrs now and it's still in NM. Haven't found a carrier yet, and if I don't by this time tomorrow, I'm gonna catch a flight to ABQ Friday morning and drive it back. I really don't have the time to do this, and to have to worry about getting back by Sunday night is not something I want to take on right now.

However, this is my new obsession...one that's been at a low boil for 4 years and I can't wait any longer now that the kettle is screaming. I really didn't want to put 2k miles on it right away, but if that's what it takes to get my MM, I'll do it.

Also, I've tried to upload pics of it and not getting anywhere...:mad2:

[CBT]

Getting a little POed right now...I have a MM that's been mine for 48 hrs now and it's still in NM. Haven't found a carrier yet, and if I don't by this time tomorrow, I'm gonna catch a flight to ABQ Friday morning and drive it back. I really don't have the time to do this, and to have to worry about getting back by Sunday night is not something I want to take on right now.

However, this is my new obsession...one that's been at a low boil for 4 years and I can't wait any longer now that the kettle is screaming. I really didn't want to put 2k miles on it right away, but if that's what it takes to get my MM, I'll do it.

Also, I've tried to upload pics of it and not getting anywhere...:mad2:

Is the seller going to hold it until you find a carrier?

[IwantmyMMnow!]

He better....it's fully bought and paid for. After an hour of research, I'm about 95% certain I'm going to fly out and drive it back. I can get on a flight Fri morn and be out there by 1pm, and the weather looks great the entire trip back. I'm waiting to hear back from the salesman to see if they would be willing to bring it to ABQ and meet me at the airport.... (just under a 3 hour drive for them).

Is it possible? Will I have the keys in my hand and be driving my own SB MM in less than 48hrs??? I don't think I'll be able to sleep tonight, thinking of the possibility!!!

Oh yeah, the 'badness' of owning a MM has already started...I'll be driving it back with an expired DL! HAHAHAHAHA!!!!

[CBT]

Oh yeah, the 'badness' of owning a MM has already started...I'll be driving it back with an expired DL! HAHAHAHAHA!!!!

Dibs on your floormats :beer:

[SpartaPerformance]

Congrats on dumping the farfromgruven and getting a real car!!

[IwantmyMMnow!]

NO...unless you're the one that bails me out of jail. I wonder if Buford T. Justice is still on the Louisiana State Highway Patrol?

I've really enjoyed my Jetta, it's been a real good car...of course, my opinion could change come Friday...

[69428SCJ]

www.uship.com (http://www.uship.com) is your friend ;)

[Horsepower]

NO...unless you're the one that bails me out of jail. I wonder if Buford T. Justice is still on the Louisiana State Highway Patrol?

I've really enjoyed my Jetta, it's been a real good car...of course, my opinion could change come Friday...

And it will :D

[2,4shofast]

Congrats on your find, hope you are able to get it soon. What is your AFSC?

[snigalfriz]

Welcome to the club

[SC Cheesehead]

And it will :D

I sure hope so! :D

[IwantmyMMnow!]

Got my ticket (last seat left on plane!), dealer is going to meet me at airport with my car, and by this time tomorrow I should be on my way back here in my new MM. I've got a bunch of guys coming over to play some Hold 'em in a few, so I'll check back in when I get home with my new pride and joy! :rolleyes:

BTW...my AFSC is 1W091...(weather)

Peace!:beer:

[Marauderman]

Dear IwantmyMMnow,

Beware, Beware, Beware....Danger, extreme danger lurks in your neck of the woods. This, once young; old Jarhead is barely walking testimony to what happens when the Carolina Marauders hit the road. You are dealing with serious wild eyed lunatic pounders when you get balled up with these knuckleheads. Tom and Rex will change your life and not for the better. There is only one redeeming feature....after about a week when life returns to near normal after drinking with these guys you will discover that the grin on your face is permanent. Jim will fix your Marauder and Tom and Cheese will fix your life..be careful it is not permanently. Bring beer muscles, Tom will bring the sandwiches and Cheese will bring the Ankle Biter Ale. Welcome, enjoy your Marauder. See you down the road. Dennis:beer: :D :high5: :burnout:

Ah man---you told on us........we are a fun group....especially when there is food,beer/drinks and MMs around.....


Who me? Must be thinking of somebody else, temperance and virtue are my middle names.... ;)
http://www.bloodydecks.com/forums/images/smilies/720icon.gif

AH Cheese....we don't have time to look up those words/meanings........I thought your middle name was "Moon"---:lol:

We are so thrilled for you--actually I think fastblackmerc and I can go get it for you ----naw--we'd take forever ...cause we'd have stopped and got to much done to it before we get it home..

Anyway--when you get it home--check in with SC Cheesehead and Marauder386--he lives closer to you----we all can help --you will see---take care and good luck with your trip--and stay under the speed limit--no DL remember-- Tom

[Papillon]

Congrats & post pics when you can!!!

[rayjay]

Have a safe trip and enjoy your new baby! :beer:

[IwantmyMMnow!]

...and it is MINE!!! Oh man, oh man, oh man, oh MAN! I LOVE IT! My initial attraction to the MM four years ago was how it looked and finding out it had a bad-ass engine. I knew they were only made in 03/04, but didn't know the specifics until a month ago. I gotta say, this beast makes my Jetta look like a *****ing tricycle with no wheels. I didn't really push it too hard on the drive back (didn't wanna risk leaving pieces of motor on the interstate or wrap it around something right away), but I did a little while ago and HOLY ****! I swear I'm going to have a permanent grin on my face. Below is a diary of what I encountered over the past 3 days, if you care to read. I didn't look all the time, but I never saw another MM on my 1800 mile journey.

Day 1 (March 11, 2011):

Left Charleston via Delta at 7:15am; arrived in Albuquerque at 12:35pm. Called the salesman as soon as we touched down and he said he was eating lunch and would be at the airport in 15 minutes. Went to baggage claim...bags hadn't started yet, so I went out to smoke. Just as I was putting out my smoke, I see it. I may be crazy, but my car actually looked like it had a little grin as it pulled up to the curb. After a couple minutes of small talk with the salesman, I needed him to take it around a couple times while I went in to grab my bag, or else the 90 year old TSA agent was gonna have it towed. I wanted to punch him for threatning my car, but kept my emotions in check, plus, I respect my elders. I got my bag and came back out just as he was coming around again. I threw my bag in the trunk, grabbed the keys, thanked him for meeting me at the airport and jumped in MY MM! The fit was like a glove! I mosied through the rest of the pick-up area (trying not to stomp on the gas and plow down a dozen or so innocent bystanders) and once I got into the open, I gave the gas a little push. Amazing! I went from 15mph to 45 mph in just 2 seconds! Oh man, what have I gotten myself into, I thought. I didn't get on the interstate just yet; I was starving and I wanted to stop and take a pic and send to my friends. As I was driving around, I spotted a Sonic. Made a right turn when the light turned green and some fugly ***** screamed at me for not letting her fat ass cross the road before I turned. As I looked in my rearview, I see her flipping me off as I'm driving away. I don't know if I hit a bump that shook my mirror, but it kinda looked like she tripped on something. Oh well, she's just upset cuz her crusty ass hadn't been laid in awhile and she wanted me to stop and invite her twelve-sandwich eatin, non-shower taking, granny-panty-wearing, muffin-top bloated ass to go with me to Sonic. Man, this car is changing my attitude already! After Sonic and a couple of pics, I head for the interstate, ready to begin my journey. I gotta say, it's cool the speed limit is 75mph out there, but not much else impressed me. The landscape is different and pretty cool-looking, but it also looks so desolate. I stop for gas and think I'm gonna get blown away by the wind; the dust reeks havoc with my eyes. Nonetheless, I continue on, pushing my MM when I can, and cruising to get the feel for my MM. It'll be dark soon and I begin to think trying to get to OKC for the night may be a bit too much for day 1. I'd been up since 5am and had terrible heartburn from the White Russians I drank the night before while playing Hold 'em with my 'new' friends...losing $50 didn't leave a good taste in my mouth, either. I breathe a small sigh of relief as I see a sign that says, "Welcome to Texas!" shortly after 5pm; OKC is still a possibility. As I drive through Amarillo a couple hours later, with the sun blasting me in my rear view, I think about stopping for dinner. I don't want fast food, but it looks like all the restaurants are jammed...forgot it was Friday night. Not really that hungry anyway and I feel like I have molten lava in my chest from the heartburn, so I push on. Just as I was cursing myself for not stopping to get food, I come upon the town of Shamrock, Texas. I see a billboard for 'Big Ken's Steakhouse' and figure, 'what the hell'. I just hope they are open since it's 10, or is it 8? WTF? My phone is messed up from the time zone change and I don't know if the clock in the car is right. I pull in since I see quite a few cars and lights inside. I'm greeted by a VERY cute and perky blonde waitress, who assures me they are open for another hour (turns out it's 9pm). After getting my eyes back in their sockets and the thoughts of what hot sex with her would be like clear my head, I sit down to one of the best steak dinners I've had in a LONG time. If you ever find yourself in Shamrock, Texas (or within a couple hours), I highly recommend this place. After (a generous) tip, it came out to an even $20...not bad for a steak dinner, cute & friendly waitresses, and conference tourney b-ball on the TVs. Of course, as I pull out of the parking lot, I make sure everyone knows it. An hour later, I'm in Oklahoma. I stop for gas and curse myself for not committing to stay the night in Shamrock; who knows, maybe one of those cuties at 'Big Ken's' could've kept me company. OKC is still over an hour away, and it's just past 11. Oh well, I'm an MM owner now...there are no ******s in the Hall of Fame. I reach OKC at 1230am; can't find a hotel room because of some wildfire deal going on in the state and everyone is staying in OKC. At my fifth hotel (Super 8), I find a room. It's almost 2am when I drop my bags on the floor and my eyes are burning almost as bad as my heartburn. I pop a couple Tums, flip through the channels on the tube for about 10 mins (Damn, no free porn) and go to sleep. Day 2 on next post....

[IwantmyMMnow!]

Just got back from a quick run to Taco Bell (writing makes me hungry)...

So, I pull up to place my order...wait, wait, wait. Finally, someone acknowledges I'm there. At this exact moment, a Mustang pulls up behind me. (Newer model; can't tell exactly which) Well, during the whole process of order food, pay for food, and wait for food, I realize it's some cocky SOB with a girl in the car. Of course, he's doing what's necessary to make his engine loud without being too obvious. So, after I get my food, I pull forward and pretend to be checking my bag to make sure my order is right. I see in my sideview he gets his food, so I slooowly make my way to the exit, just to make sure he gets right behind me. I freakin gun it onto the highway, engine roaring and just the tiniest series of tire chirps...wish I could've seen the expressions on their faces (especially his, and the subsequent shrinkage of his testacles), but all I could see was two tiny white dots after 3 seconds.

Oh, and it turns out my order was wrong...I got an extra chicken taco!

GOD, I LOVE MY MM!!!!!!!!:burnout:

[IwantmyMMnow!]

So, I wake up at 9:30, no heartburn, but with a dull headache and feel like I've been rode hard and hung up wet. I begin to think, 'was this worth it?', 'was it really necessary to go through all of this so I wouldn't have to wait to get my MM?'. At that point, I think about my MM, and I get a smile on my face...hell yeah, it's worth it. I'm on the road half an hour later, windows down and enjoying the sunshine and the warmth with just a little touch of coolness in the air. Destination: Birmingham. All-day drive ahead of me, but I don't care. Thousands of people will see me in my MM, hear the loud hum of the engine, and get blinded when the sunlight dances off my rims and in their eyes like a disco ball. Of course, at every gas/food/bathroom stop, I make sure everyone knows when I arrive and when I leave. I reach B-ham at 9:30pm. After I drop my bag in my room, I head to Waffle House (one of my favorite places to eat). Why I ordered the omlete with jalepenos in it, I have no idea, but I'm sure being an MM owner had something to do with it. I roar out of WH...to go across the street to top off my tank. Whatever it takes to get an excuse to hear the roar of the engine. I sack out at midnight, realizing that by the next evening, I'll be home with my new MM. Day 3 is next...

[rayjay]

Yep, you're hooked. :D See if you can make Carlisle (June) or MV9 (October). Some of your brethren from the Carolinas will be there. We had a ball at MV8 in Charlotte last Sept, so make if you can.

[IwantmyMMnow!]

Having lost an hour's sleep to Daylight Savings Time, losing an hour the day before due to time zone change, and facing another hour lost due to another time zone change, I wake up with mixed emotions. I look out the window to ensure it is sunny as forecasted, and there I see my MM parked, calling me to jump in and get started. The sunlight dances off my rims, giving me the perception that my MM is winking at me; flirting with me as if she was a beautiful woman beckoning me to her side. Half an hour later, I'm checked out and in my MM, ready to finish the last day of my journey. I get on the western suburbs of Atlanta a couple hours later, ready to put some fuel in my tank as well as in my stomach. As I exit the interstate to give my girl what she needs, I spot where I'm going to have lunch....HOOTERS! I've passed so many of those over the course of my life, thinking I'm not 'good enough' to stop in...I'm an MM owner now; they should have a reserved spot for me to park and I should be greeted by the entire waitress staff as I get out of my MM! I pull into the parking lot, let everyone know I've arrived, and head inside. As I finish up my lunch, my waitress starts making small talk with me, asking me what I'm doing, etc. I fill her in on the details of my 'journey' over the past 72 hours, and she says she wants to see my MM. So, after I pay up, we walk out to my car. She was impressed, and when I cranked the engine and gave it a quick punch of the gas, I could tell she was in awe. :bows: I'm still a rookie at getting attention like this, so thoughts of snapping a couple pics of her next to my MM don't come to me until after I leave...I'm such an idiot! I should've asked her if she wanted to go for a spin...and then we could take a ride in my MM....;) Anyway, I gun it out of the parking lot, producing a quick 3-chirp out of the rear tires. Shortly thereafter, I'm on the east side of Atlanta, with a decent amount of traffic. I see coming up behind me in a rice-burning Integra a punk teenager with his friend and a couple girls in the car. I'm in no hurry, so I begin to move over to let him by; at that exact moment, he tried to pull a fast move and pass me on the right, then swerves back to the left to pass me. I have a car in front of me, but the lane to my right is clear for a short stretch, so I gun it and instantly go from 70 to 95 within the blink of an eye...yes, I caught a glimpse of one of the girls looking at me. I begin to wonder if her panties are wet yet, then realize I'm about to rear end someone, so have no choice but to back down. The drive from Atlanta to Augusta was painfully boring; with a full stomach and a full tank, there's no reason to stop. Finally, I see the 'Welcome to South Carolina' sign and my excitement spikes...only 3 hours from getting my MM home. I stop at the visitors center to walk around (3 days on the road was beginning to reek havoc with my back) and, of course, let everyone know I'm leaving. I finally pull into my driveway at 6:48pm, glad that my 1800 mile journey is over and very happy that I didn't encounter any mechanical problems on the way home. I walk into my house, exhausted and triumphant, ready to relax and begin working the kinks out of my body from the 3 day drive. An hour later, I'm back in my MM, driving to the store to get smokes, even though I still have a full pack. As I walk out, there's a group of four girls standing around a car; normally I take a left to go home, but if I take a right....

This is it, I'm home; if I leave the engine in the road, I only have a 1/2 mile walk back to my house. I gun her harder than I ever have before and am in total awe of the power and the roar coming from my MM. For a second, I felt and thought I was in a race car. A smile from ear to ear comes across my face, and I yell "GOD DAMN THIS CAR IS ****KING AWESOME!!" at the top of my lungs....

[bugsyc]

Let me add to the Welcome aboards...I'm in Myrtle Beach and I go to the Charleston VA hospital every now and then..If I can be of any help,please do not hesitate...MM ownership is a shear joy...and MM.net membership is the right place to be..Lots of helpfull friendly owners..Again welcome aboard...:banana2:

[bugsyc]

BTW is your new beauty STOCK???

[IwantmyMMnow!]

Please bear with me, I still haven't learned any of the functions (other than post a message), so I haven't figured out how to do the quote thing yet.

RayJay:
Carlisle in June...that's a negative ghostrider. Already have plans to attend family reunion in WI, and that's iffy...no way I could do both. Haven't been to a reunion in 5 years, so it's my #1 priority.

bugsyc:
If you play golf, I'd love to come up to MYR; its been at least 15 years since I played there. Yes, my MM is stock; its so stock, I'm thinking of having "THE original" painted on the rear bumper just beneath "MARAUDER".

I have half a dozen pics I want to post, but can't seem to get them from my phone to my computer (technology is great, as long as it works). I've tried emailing them to my yahoo and hotmail with no luck. I don't know where those emails went, but they didn't go to either one of my accounts.

I had new tires, rotors, and serpentine belt put on it today. It drives soooo much better; I had to drive 1800 miles with a vibrator in my hand and a vibrator on steroids everytime I hit the brakes. I knew the tires/rotors/brakes would be a crapshoot, but not surprised they needed to be replaced. (The pads were actually in good shape). Total cost was just over $1800 (why does that number keep popping up?), but they did cut $50 off the tires, gave me a free alignment, and only charged for one hour of labor instead of two on the rotors. The guys at the repair shop said my front tires were toed out; the steel belts were actually showing through on the inner portion of the tires. They said it looked to be in very good shape underneath, but looks like I have a slow leak with the power steering. They also said the engine was cleaned really well. Yesterday when I was cleaning half the insect population off the front of my MM, I noticed the passenger side fog lamp lens was busted out, which led to the discovery of two small blue streaks on that corner of the bumper, which led to the discovery that the bumper is slightly ajar from the rest of the car on the driver's side. Either someone hit a mailbox or the Smurfs hate Marauders...

All in all, I'm still VERY glad I got my MM; I got it for $2k less than originally advertised, saved another $500 getting it myself, and had the guys impressed with my MM at the repair shop, so having to drop $1800 on stuff right away on things I was eventually going to have to pay for is not a big deal. Oh yeah, I put new wipers on too; the clip that holds the blade to the arm on the driver's side was missing, so I'm glad I didn't have to deal with any rain or else my wiper blade would've probably ended up somewhere off of I-40 and I would most likely have ended up with a nice scratch in the shape of a crescent moon on my windshield.

I knew it wouldn't be in "mint" condition, so I do have a list of things I need to fix. I guess the 'top 3' would be fix the fog lamp, snug up the bumper on the drivers' side, and see if there's any way I can get the 'curb rash' fixed on the passenger's side front rim...guess that happened when Poppa Smurf busted the fog lamp.

Any suggestions/ideas on colors for the fog lamps? I'm thinking some shade of pale blue, if available. Might as well replace both. Or can/should I get colored bulbs instead?

Thanks again to everyone for welcoming me to this site...

KG

[rayjay]

Iwant, No problem on Carlisle, family comes 1st. Just keep it in mind for next year. What specs did they align your car to? If the inner edge was worn, that is normal with the Marauder OEM alignment. Search here for carfixers alignment specs. Those are the ones everyone uses. I take it you went with the OEM tires?

I don't know if OEM foglamps are available still or not. SCCH's below post may help. FWIW, when mine was a DD I used Silver Stars in my OEM fogs and they worked really well for actual fog and more important here, snow. Something about the light frequency allows them to cut right through snow. I use them in my DD/winter beater.

[SC Cheesehead]

PM fastblackmerc or 03mmmonroe for help with the fog light replacement, IIRC, both of them went with HID set ups.

Also, if you want to post up pics, scroll down the page to the "manage attachments" section, that'll let you browse and select files from your computer to embed into your posts.

One last thing, give me a holler if you ever get Upstate in SC.

[a_d_a_m]

I may have missed this, but where are the pictures?!

[rayjay]

Iwant, those are the OEM tires/sizes. Run the rears at 40psi or you will burn the centers out rather quick. I know it defies logic, but thats what the collective here has learned and IIRC it also came from a BFG engineer some years ago to do that. Has to do with the staggered sizes and rake of the car. Some have gotten very good miles out of them, most have not, but if you run them hard it will help. Right foot dependant too. :D There was a deal last year on OEM blems and some of us went back to them. I did, but with the 4.10 gears they won't last long... The fronts last a long time without the OEM alignment specs. That spec was to make the car handle better, but it burned up the insides of the front tires, as you already know. Carfixer's spec is a great compromise. There is a wealth of information here and the guys in the Carolina Marauders are a great bunch. There is quite a bit that you can do to your car for mods. It all depends on what you want to spend and which way you want to go. Mild to wild.

Intake, a tune and gears are the best bang for your buck modds. You need a tune to make the gears work right with the tranny. Read up, theres plenty here.

[IwantmyMMnow!]

Think I figured out the prob with the pics...if this one works, I'll upload the others I have. In this one, you can see the bumper is not snug on the front like I mentioned in a previous post.

[IwantmyMMnow!]

mmm...got a link...now to figure out how to make it show up w/o the link...and can't see the bumper issue in the one I posted....

[a_d_a_m]

SB.
I wanted one so bad before the black one fell in my lap.

That'll be my next one. Eventually I'd like to have one of each color.

[IwantmyMMnow!]

(finally):banana2:

[Blackened300a]

Welcome to the site and congrats on the puchase. Get a tune for the car and it will be a completely different animal.

[IwantmyMMnow!]

http://by157w.bay157.mail.live.com/att/GetAttachment.aspx?tnail=0&messageId=c28718ce-5041-11e0-a967-002264c1d54a&Aux=4|0|8CDB265AEAB9770||0|0|0 |0||&maxwidth=220&maxheight=160&size=Att

Sonic stop after picking up from airport in ABQ, NM

http://by157w.bay157.mail.live.com/att/GetAttachment.aspx?tnail=0&messageId=10d70659-5042-11e0-9648-00215ad6a9f4&Aux=44|0|8CDB265F913BF90||0|0| 0|0||&maxwidth=220&maxheight=160&size=Att

First piss stop; eastern NM

http://by157w.bay157.mail.live.com/att/GetAttachment.aspx?tnail=0&messageId=68fd6c86-5043-11e0-8782-00237de3f1e4&Aux=4|0|8CDB26754B60AA0||0|0|0 |0||&maxwidth=220&maxheight=160&size=Att

Getting ready to be looked at after bringing her home; Goose Creek, SC

http://by157w.bay157.mail.live.com/att/GetAttachment.aspx?tnail=0&messageId=fe080365-5043-11e0-afee-00215ad9bc92&Aux=4|0|8CDB267EA91B060||0|0|0 |0||&maxwidth=220&maxheight=160&size=Att

Clean and stock...

[a_d_a_m]

http://by157w.bay157.mail.live.com/att/GetAttachment.aspx?tnail=0&messageId=c28718ce-5041-11e0-a967-002264c1d54a&Aux=4%7C0%7C8CDB265AEAB9770%7C %7C0%7C0%7C0%7C0%7C%7C&maxwidth=220&maxheight=160&size=AttSonic stop after picking up from airport in ABQ, NM

http://by157w.bay157.mail.live.com/att/GetAttachment.aspx?tnail=0&messageId=10d70659-5042-11e0-9648-00215ad6a9f4&Aux=44%7C0%7C8CDB265F913BF90%7 C%7C0%7C0%7C0%7C0%7C%7C&maxwidth=220&maxheight=160&size=AttFirst piss stop; eastern NM

http://by157w.bay157.mail.live.com/att/GetAttachment.aspx?tnail=0&messageId=68fd6c86-5043-11e0-8782-00237de3f1e4&Aux=4%7C0%7C8CDB26754B60AA0%7C %7C0%7C0%7C0%7C0%7C%7C&maxwidth=220&maxheight=160&size=AttGetting ready to be looked at after bringing her home; Goose Creek, SC

Clean and stock... Pictures ain't workin. :confused:

[rayjay]

Put your pics in the Members gallery and then just copy & paste. If I can do it, anyone can.

[IwantmyMMnow!]

Well, just got back from Asheville. I took my buddy to the guy he was buying his Impala from...sweet-looking car, but I told him I'd still smoke his ass...

So, the guy my buddy bought the car from has his own mod/tune/muscle car shop. Turns out, he's the owner/driver of the Honda CRX that is the only import to make it to the finals on "Pinks - All Out". :burnout:

Anyway, he saw my rauder and actually complimented ME! He and his crew saw an MM at a show once and gave it no chance due to it's size...he said he was very impressed on how fast it could be for such a big car. He also said they have tune/cook-out parties about once a month and said it would cost about $400 to DYNO (or is it DINO?) tune my MM...this seem to be a fair price? :confused:

Like I said before, I don't know a whole lot about cars/engines, but am learning more each day. Even though I am a novice, I don't want to be taken advantage of like one. :mad2: Your comments/suggestions are always appreciated and welcome. Is it Oct 12th yet?

[CBT]

Your comments/suggestions are always appreciated and welcome. Is it Oct 12th yet?

Don't smash the gas with the car in overdrive.

[rayjay]

[QUOTE=IwantmyMMnow!;1024172]
Anyway, he saw my rauder and actually complimented ME! He and his crew saw an MM at a show once and gave it no chance due to it's size...he said he was very impressed on how fast it could be for such a big car. He also said they have tune/cook-out parties about once a month and said it would cost about $400 to DYNO (or is it DINO?) tune my MM...this seem to be a fair price? :confused:
QUOTE]

$400, does it include the tuner and time on the dyno? Properly tuning a car on a dyno can be $$$, ask me how I know. :rolleyes: Anyway, be careful. The MM is not a Mustang and can not be tuned the same. Any tune should include improvements to the tranny shift schedule and this where they differ from a Stang. 4400# cars run differently with a 4.6L engine than to much lighter mustangs. You also have 3.55 gears from the factory, also different than a stang. If the tuner understands this you should be ok. You really aren't that far from one of the best guys for Marauders, Dennis Reinhart in northern FL. Might be worth the trip to do right 1st time. -OR- you may want to save your $$$ and do mods that require a tune all at once. The 4.10 gears require a tune, but it may be the single best mod going. Night/day difference in the car. I wish I had done mine way before I did. Just keep in mind that this is a low build # car and therefore the parts are more exspensive than say mustangs which are a dime a dozen. Good luck and enjoy. You also have the advantage of having some very knowledgeable guys in your area. I'd take advantage of that. Check out SCCH's Blues Bros car with the Eaton conversion. Shaweet! I can't wait to see it in June.

[SC Cheesehead]

Well, just got back from Asheville. I took my buddy to the guy he was buying his Impala from...sweet-looking car, but I told him I'd still smoke his ass...

So, the guy my buddy bought the car from has his own mod/tune/muscle car shop. Turns out, he's the owner/driver of the Honda CRX that is the only import to make it to the finals on "Pinks - All Out". :burnout:

Anyway, he saw my rauder and actually complimented ME! He and his crew saw an MM at a show once and gave it no chance due to it's size...he said he was very impressed on how fast it could be for such a big car. He also said they have tune/cook-out parties about once a month and said it would cost about $400 to DYNO (or is it DINO?) tune my MM...this seem to be a fair price? :confused:

Like I said before, I don't know a whole lot about cars/engines, but am learning more each day. Even though I am a novice, I don't want to be taken advantage of like one. :mad2: Your comments/suggestions are always appreciated and welcome. Is it Oct 12th yet?

Contact Mo's Speed Shop, they just did a tune on prchrman's car and he's very pleased with it.

Mo's is a little northwest of Atlanta, prolly about the closest place you'll find that knows Marauders and can do a dyno tune for you.

[rayjay]

Contact Mo's Speed Shop, they just did a tune on prchrman's car and he's very pleased with it.

Mo's is a little northwest of Atlanta, prolly about the closest place you'll find that knows Marauders and can do a dyno tune for you.

See I told ya you were in a lucky place for assistance.

[SC Cheesehead]

See I told ya you were in a lucky place for assistance.

And you too, could join us here in the Sunny South, Ray (hint, hint, hint ;))

[rayjay]

And you too, could join us here in the Sunny South, Ray (hint, hint, hint ;))

No need to hint, 4" of new snow overnight.... :(

[SC Cheesehead]

No need to hint, 4" of new snow overnight.... :(

Low 60's and sunny down here today. Just sayin...

[rayjay]

Low 60's and sunny down here today. Just sayin...

Springs coming, maybe next week???

[Chevyguy]

You're Air Force, hop a MAC flight.

Even Better make some friends with a Loadmaster!!

http://www.globemaster.de/assets/images/c-17/C-17_Globemaster_054_800.jpg

[CBT]

Even Better make some friends with a Loadmaster!!

http://www.globemaster.de/assets/images/c-17/C-17_Globemaster_054_800.jpg

That was my porn name in grade school. :D

[IwantmyMMnow!]

Must have been proud to be the only 16 year old in grade school...

[SC Cheesehead]

Must have been proud to be the only 16 year old in grade school...


Ka-Pow! :D

[CBT]

Must have been proud to be the only 16 year old in grade school...
I didn't say it was MY grade school. :cool:

[IwantmyMMnow!]

Glad my kids don't go to school around you...

Passed my PT test today; 39 crunches, 33 push-ups, 13:02 on 1.5 mile run...not bad for a 40-year old out of shape smoker...feeling studly!

"Bathe her, and bring her to me"

[IwantmyMMnow!]

So, on Thursday, one of the guys that works in the same building as me starts talking about how he saw another MM just like mine. I quickly pointed out how rare MMs are (especially SBs) and that a Grand Marquis looks like a MM with the obvious exceptions (rims/tires mainly). Welllll, on my way home from work Friday, I'LL BE DAMNED! There it is! A SB MM just like mine! (Last time I leave work early!) I was excited at first to see another MM on the road, but then I saw it had SC plates and I was deflated. I wanted to be the only one with a MM in my area! Now, if it was NOT a SB, I would've been okay with it, but DAMMIT, it is a SB. Now I'm just one of two instead of one in a million... :mad2:

Got my C of A in the mail today...kinda cool, but I do have to ask...$45 for this? I doubt it cost 45 cents to make it...oh yeah, the other $44.55 went towards 'research' I guess. Anyway, it says my car was assembled at St. Thomas on 4/9/2003. #7188 of 7838 and #112 of 417 SBs made that year. Now I know what my personalized LP will have on it: MY112SB

What have you guys/gals done with your C of A? Hanging on a wall in the house, or placed somewhere in your MM?

Spent several hours on my new obsession today, which has raised a few questions concerning cosmetic mods. Has anyone had the thought of changing the emblem on the steering wheel from the Mercury logo to the Marauder 'godshead' emblem? CD changer...anyone moved it from the trunk to the center console? Any 'softer' replacements for the cushion on the center console? (3 days of driving gave me tennis elbow) Is it difficult to change the dash/interior lights from that pale green to a different color?

Hope everyone is having a good weekend...how many days til Marauderville IX?:burnout:

[CBT]

Got my C of A in the mail today...kinda cool, but I do have to ask...$45 for this?
What have you guys/gals done with your C of A? Hanging on a wall in the house, or placed somewhere in your MM?


It's in a pile of boxes with all the other Marauder trinkets.

[Bluerauder]

What have you guys/gals done with your C of A? Hanging on a wall in the house, or placed somewhere in your MM?

I put mine in a binder with those clear plastic sleeves that I display at car shows. The binder includes facts, figures, and brochures about the MM. Also includes pics from various events that I have attended along with all/many of the dash plaques that I have accumulated over the years.

I also have a "Limited Production" certificate mounted on a walnut certificate display that I set inside the engine compartment during shows.

[69428SCJ]

I framed my certificate and it's hanging on my wall, next to the one for my Cobra and the Marti Report for my Eliminator. Other people have already placed the Gods head emblem on their steering wheel. As for moving the cd player, I'm not sure it would fit in the console...