The Hot Rod Power Tour started at Port Canaveral this year, and our impromptu representation of Mopar was there for the kickoff.

We got a bit of a late start planning for the Hot Rod Power Tour this year, but since it began locally we figured it would be a shame not to drive some Mopars over for the kickoff and at least one leg of the tour.

A week ago, our '78 custom Dodge van couldn't have been trusted to make a trip like this, but thanks to some hard work and help from Summit Racing Equipment and Inline Performance Specialists, we got it roadworthy just in time. And by roadworthy, we mean drivable, but no air conditioning. We actually had the a/c working briefly (psych), but a leaky line and broken bolt in the compressor prevented us from enjoying it on the tour. Oh well, the Tradesman is well ventilated and we've driven plenty of non air-conditioned cars in the Florida heat. It's a great way to lose weight.

With the van loaded, we hooked up with Dave and his '72 Coronet wagon (complete with surfboard) and Matt in an original, yes, a real one, 69 Charger 500. Luckily, the drive across the state was uneventful, and we ate breakfast at Denny's. Later at the show, Matt would be eating his foot, but that's another story entirely.

If you haven't been on the Power Tour, it's huge. Like a giant rolling car show, there's something for everyone's taste including late-models, rat-rods, street rods, and a pretty good share of Mopars. We even saw a mid-sixties Dodge van  with a 340, and several other vans on the tour. There's also a manufacturers midway and lots of free stuff for drivers.

Meeting up with Jim, Paul, Chris, and Brandon at the kickoff, we enjoyed the car show and our evening, then toured the space center before the road trip to South Georgia Motorsports Park. So far we're having a blast and encourage more of you to join us for next year's Power Tour.

So far the best thing about the van is the payload capability (everything but the dog in the below photo, plus luggage). The worst is still the smell, but its getting better thanks to the E3 air-freshener in the goody bag.

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