BajaNomad

2015 Baja Pole Line Road 4x4 Run (April 4th, 5th, 6th - 2015)

 Pages:  1    3

Ken Cooke - 10-25-2014 at 09:52 AM

The Baja Pole Line Run -- April 4th, 5th, 6th, 2015

April 4th - Meet at 8 am - CALEXICO PEP BOYS - Drive first half of trail.
Tent camp on the trail (Cobblestone Hill area)
April 5th - Continue/complete POLE LINE ROAD - Tackle Basketball Hill, "Bad Hill" - view poles that are still intact.
Stay at MICK's casa in RIO HARDY
April 6th - Depart at ~9 - 10 am from MICK's casa




[Edited on 2-18-2015 by Ken Cooke]

TMW - 10-25-2014 at 10:40 AM

I could do Feb or Apr but March 29th is our anniversary

Tioloco - 10-25-2014 at 10:54 AM

Is this invite only, or anybody with a capable rig?

Ken Cooke - 10-25-2014 at 11:03 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by TW
I could do Feb or Apr but March 29th is our anniversary



My vote is for April - Lets get TW on the trail! :bounce:

Ken Cooke - 10-25-2014 at 11:06 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by Tioloco
Is this invite only, or anybody with a capable rig?


A stock 4WD vehicle with a spare tire and 5 - 10 gallons of extra fuel will be sufficient to complete this trail. Full size 4WD trucks will need to have clearance due to their increased breakover angle on obstacles.

David K - 10-25-2014 at 11:12 AM

I would like to go... let's hope it works out!:light:

David K: Stock Suspension Toyota Tacoma Double Cab 4WD OFF ROAD TRD, 32" tires. (locking differential and A-TRAC equipped)

[Edited on 10-25-2014 by David K]

MAPS

David K - 10-25-2014 at 11:23 AM

1962 map of the Pole Line Road by Howard Gulick (Lower California Guidebook)...



West Half on Google Earth:



East Half on Google Earth:



On Baja Almanac:



Closer:



Highlighted:



[Edited on 10-25-2014 by David K]

Ken Cooke - 10-25-2014 at 11:23 AM

This is a good representation of the historic Baja Pole Line Road

The stock Toyota Tacoma with 31" tires went everywhere the big Jeeps with 35" tires went. Only the full-size Chevy pickup had difficulties due to its length.

Ken Cooke - 10-25-2014 at 11:31 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by David K
I would like to go... let's hope it works out!:light:

David K: Stock Suspention Toyota Tacoma Double Cab 4WD OFF ROAD TRD, 32" tires. (locking differential and A-TRAC equipped)


I need to get you out there so you can make a couple of videos for me about the Lost Diaz grave! I'll let you know, David!

David K - 10-25-2014 at 11:48 AM

So that poor Chevy got bashed past the entrance to Basketball Hill? Do you have that entrance marked better or memorized? Better still, maybe this run is not suitable for full size trucks? Art in his motorhome would be an exception, naturally! :lol::lol::lol: (the first motorhome, not the second)!

David K - 10-25-2014 at 11:50 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by Ken Cooke
Quote:
Originally posted by David K
I would like to go... let's hope it works out!:light:

David K: Stock Suspension Toyota Tacoma Double Cab 4WD OFF ROAD TRD, 32" tires. (locking differential and A-TRAC equipped)


I need to get you out there so you can make a couple of videos for me about the Lost Diaz grave! I'll let you know, David!


Well, if I go... I will go find the grave after the run... it is just a few miles from the Pole Line Road... if it is still there!

TMW - 10-25-2014 at 02:51 PM

If Art comes in his motorhome I'll bring two winches just in case. I would like to explore the area past the turn for basketball hill because in1990 and 1991 we rode motorcycles past there and up a cow trail and over to another arroyo where we carried the bikes over rocks then down to the main arroyo Jaquejel. Also there is a water falls there.

PaulW - 10-25-2014 at 07:52 PM

Sign me up

Ken Cooke - 10-25-2014 at 09:30 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by TW
I would like to explore the area past the turn for basketball hill because in1990 and 1991 we rode motorcycles past there and up a cow trail and over to another arroyo where we carried the bikes over rocks then down to the main arroyo Jaquejel. Also there is a water falls there.


Lots to explore in that area. If we can get a real early start, camping at the entrance to Basketball hill will be possible and then driving past the large boulder and exploring will be possible early the next day.

PaulW - 10-26-2014 at 07:37 AM

Large boulder I do not remember that. I do remember the crew cab pickup at cross ways in the BB hill? Good thing I made a GPS track or I would get lost for sure. I think my memory is good for a month or so - sucks.

Paul

PaulW - 10-26-2014 at 07:38 AM

Well I do have documentation for my trip

Detailed GPS track is available. I cleaned it up to get rid on my wandering to do the trip. Send U2U with your email address and I will forward you the GPS file. See the track pics below
Clarification:
We were traveling east to west and as you can see we got off track in the dark at the west end. The approach from the west should start at KM 103 and follow the traditional track to the summit. That will avoid all the new fencing and potentially locked gates. Then east of the summit we took the hard track and the traditional track will avoid all those washout and locked gates we found.
I left the Zuzky find in the big wash in case other would want to explore the dead end canyon.
When you get the GPS track zoom way in to find the track around the east end washout.



PaulW - 10-26-2014 at 07:45 AM

Any takers for one of the south summit tracks?
Pretty easy to make a track from GE to find the way.
Paul

TMW - 10-26-2014 at 10:21 AM

I remember when the large boulder was first in the trail and Ken hooked his Jeep winch to it to pull it out of the way. The nly thing that moved was Ken's Jeep toward the rock. Pretty funny at the time.

Put me on the interested list

John M - 10-26-2014 at 10:51 AM

Only dates I could do would be the April trip.

John M

ehall - 10-26-2014 at 01:15 PM

I want in.

TMW - 10-27-2014 at 09:24 AM

FYI looking at the PLR where it leaves the wash and up Basketball and over to the other wash is mostly cloud cover on Google Earth, especially the first half. But if you use Bing Maps http://www.bing.com/maps/ it gives a much more clear picture of the trail.

lsclav55 - 10-27-2014 at 01:12 PM

Would it be possible to make the trip with polaris ranger. One night camping or two night camping. How much highway travel???

TMW - 10-27-2014 at 01:27 PM

The two times I went with Ken we started off road at the north end of Laguna Salada at Hwy 2 KM28 the Guadalupe exit. After the PLR we got on Hwy 5 at KM87 the first time and KM90/91 the second time. We met at the Pep Boys parking lot in Calexico before crossing the border.

I don't see why a polaris wouldn't make it.

We camped two nights.

[Edited on 10-27-2014 by TW]

twgracing - 10-27-2014 at 04:59 PM

Polaris will make it no problem...just bring an extra belt. Really want to do this trip with you guys, April would probably work best too!

PaulW - 10-27-2014 at 07:44 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by lsclav55
Would it be possible to make the trip with polaris ranger. One night camping or two night camping. How much highway travel???

====
Depends on how much fuel you can carry. Round trip from San Felipe is a little over 200 miles. Don't know where you will start so cannot answer your Q?
Plenty of Hwy travel unless you want to leave a truck/trailer some where. Probably not a good idea. Just put your helmet on for the HWY. Mexico will not hassle you.
Do it.
PAUL

Ken Cooke - 10-27-2014 at 09:16 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by PaulW
Any takers for one of the south summit tracks?
Pretty easy to make a track from GE to find the way.
Paul


I plan on buying a good GPS unit to avoid getting lost on this trip. I have Garmin waypoint data from Russ Chung that he provided me from the 2013 Pole Line Run.

As for the new gates - any go-around will be welcome. The gates probably don't belong there - is that ejido/government land? Regardless, go-arounds are helpful to keep this run on-track. I want to travel down to see the Zu zuki and take some photos next to it.

Because everyone is available the first weekend in April - April it is. Now, I need to get the word out to the 4WD Club, the magazines and a couple of manufacturers. One of the people from DV8 is already interested in attending this run.

http://www.dv8offroad.com

Ken Cooke - 10-27-2014 at 09:28 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by PaulW
Quote:
Originally posted by lsclav55
Would it be possible to make the trip with polaris ranger. One night camping or two night camping. How much highway travel???

====
Depends on how much fuel you can carry. Round trip from San Felipe is a little over 200 miles. Don't know where you will start so cannot answer your Q?
Plenty of Hwy travel unless you want to leave a truck/trailer some where. Probably not a good idea. Just put your helmet on for the HWY. Mexico will not hassle you.
Do it.
PAUL


Thanks for responding, Paul. Fuel is the big issue. But, since pickup trucks will be going, perhaps they can carry gas in their truck beds for you?

Our plan will be to meet up at Pep Boy's - Calexico, CA [Imperial Blvd.] From there, we will do brunch in Progreso after gassing up our vehicles at the Pemex there.

Plan to hit the Laguna Salada nice and early - about 10 am - run til noon to Cohabuzo Junction, then to the South Summit/Entrance to Pole Line Road. If we don't fool around too long, we can make it to the base of Basketball Hill to camp out in the wash. With our vehicles empty of camping gear, we can crawl the 1.1 miles down Enmedio to the Zuki and back early the next morning. From there, load the rigs, and hit the trail.

We can do 2 nights, 2 days by camping in Jaquegel within sight of Hwy 5 and then leave early Easter Monday for Calexico and points north. That way, we aren't stuck traveling in the city after dark. I will have to depart EARLY Monday morning for home. Some can stick around and look for the Lost Diaz Grave if David K is able to attend.

This sounds like it will be a great run! :bounce:

ehall - 10-28-2014 at 05:41 AM

First weekend in April is perfect and the weather should be great. Sign me up.

PaulW - 10-28-2014 at 07:38 AM

Good plan Ken
Here are some thoughts for a trailer rig like a SxS such as the Polaris.
From the east there are two places where one can stash an expensive tow rig.
1) At Tres Pozos. The wells have a permanent maint guy who lives there. The road from La Ventana is a maintained graded road. If one speaks good Spanish. I am sure an arrangement can be made to leave the rig there.
2) At El Michoacano (just N of the Mex3/5 intersection). The folks there have stored rigs in the past and I am sure they can stash the rig in back out of sight for a small fee. Once again good language skills are required. From this place to Tres Pozos is a reasonable Hwy & graded road drive.
Logistics at the west end of the trip one can buy fuel at Valley Trinidad at the PMEX, but for storage of a truck/trailer the best place would be Indepencia at the gas ladies place. She has a fenced compound and would be glad to store a rig for a small fee. Spanish speaking required.
Ken, you are correct as long as the SXS is with us I will have plenty of fuel. I will be carrying 2 5ers that I will not need for my rig.
Here are some mileages: Km109 to V Trin Pmex is ~11 Hwy miles, V Trin to Michoacano ~42 Hwy miles, Michoacano to La Ventana Hwy 21 miles, La Ventana to Tres Pozos ~10 to 12 miles. From the Calixico departure to the turn off Hwy 2 is all hwy travel. I do not have that mileage.
There is the option of heading S on Hwy 5 to Km40 then taking the graded road to L Salida to its east track. Road condition is unknown. I cannot recommend a place to stash your truck/trailer. However, there are lots of homes in the area and I am sure one can find a friendly homeowner to stash your rig. (FYI, PMEX is at Km31). You will need a race radio to hook up with the caravan of trucks coming from Calixico.

My plan since I live in San Felipe will be to hang out at Tres Pozos and listen on the race radio for you all coming from the north.
PaulW
=============
Quote:
Originally posted by Ken Cooke
Quote:
Originally posted by PaulW
Quote:
Originally posted by lsclav55
Would it be possible to make the trip with polaris ranger. One night camping or two night camping. How much highway travel???

====
Depends on how much fuel you can carry. Round trip from San Felipe is a little over 200 miles. Don't know where you will start so cannot answer your Q?
Plenty of Hwy travel unless you want to leave a truck/trailer some where. Probably not a good idea. Just put your helmet on for the HWY. Mexico will not hassle you.
Do it.
PAUL


Thanks for responding, Paul. Fuel is the big issue. But, since pickup trucks will be going, perhaps they can carry gas in their truck beds for you?

Our plan will be to meet up at Pep Boy's - Calexico, CA [Imperial Blvd.] From there, we will do brunch in Progreso after gassing up our vehicles at the Pemex there.

Plan to hit the Laguna Salada nice and early - about 10 am - run til noon to Cohabuzo Junction, then to the South Summit/Entrance to Pole Line Road. If we don't fool around too long, we can make it to the base of Basketball Hill to camp out in the wash. With our vehicles empty of camping gear, we can crawl the 1.1 miles down Enmedio to the Zuki and back early the next morning. From there, load the rigs, and hit the trail.

We can do 2 nights, 2 days by camping in Jaquegel within sight of Hwy 5 and then leave early Easter Monday for Calexico and points north. That way, we aren't stuck traveling in the city after dark. I will have to depart EARLY Monday morning for home. Some can stick around and look for the Lost Diaz Grave if David K is able to attend.

This sounds like it will be a great run! :bounce:

TMW - 10-28-2014 at 09:49 AM

About 1/4 mile east of the Guadalupe KM28 turn off at Laguna Salada is or was a resort/play ground place. I still see it on Google Earth but GE is dated 2008 so I don't know if they are out of business. Anyway we left a VW there a few years ago while we went to the SF250 race. I don't remember what we paid the ower but it was very reasonable. If someone is in the area and can verify the place is still in operation it would be an alternative for leaving a vehicle and trailer.

David K - 10-28-2014 at 09:52 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by TW
About 1/4 mile east of the Guadalupe KM28 turn off at Laguna Salada is or was a resort/play ground place. I still see it on Google Earth but GE is dated 2008 so I don't know if they are out of business. Anyway we left a VW there a few years ago while we went to the SF250 race. I don't remember what we paid the ower but it was very reasonable. If someone is in the area and can verify the place is still in operation it would be an alternative for leaving a vehicle and trailer.


It has been abandoned looking for some time. I think it was open when Laguna Salada was full of water for those couple of years, way back when.

MICK - 10-28-2014 at 08:35 PM

Not sure if we are going to make it but our house is open for parking your rig. We are at Km48 on Hwy 5 and the road goes right over to LS and you could meet up with the group there.
Mick

Tow rig planning

Ken Cooke - 10-28-2014 at 08:50 PM

Rio Hardy:

I can ask MICK if he knows of anyone that can watch a tow rig and trailer. Reaching the Pole Line Road from Rio Hardy is simple - just a climb up and over the Sierra el Mayor range to the 2' Laguna Salada river water crossing, and then west to Guardines de la Patria - from there, its a hop, skip, and jump to Cohabuzo Junction - but the bad part is we miss my taco stop along Hwy 2.


Question: Is it legal to cross the border in a side by side?

How far can one drive a side by side legally (or otherwise) in Mexico?

How will we rendezvous near the Sierra el Mayor mountain turnoff if most people will be meeting in Calexico? Will ppl get lost/turned around/etc. en route to Rio Hardy? Logistics.

If the side by side originated its travels from San Felipe, we could meet up at Cohabuzo Junction fairly easily - 12 Noon on Saturday. That could be our lunch stop. The side by side could fill its tank in Ejido Durango, crossing up and over the Sierra el Mayor mountains and picking up the trail to Cohabuzo Junction.

Possible problem: Traveling solo, getting stuck in the mud and salt water of the Laguna Salada River.

Please chime in, and help offer some input - I can figure these logistics out, but I will need some input such as;

* What is the range of your gas tank?
* Will you be able to drive up from San Felipe on Saturday morning?
* What level of radio communications will you run for this trek?
* If you get stuck, will your radio communications offer a way for us to know what happened so we can pull you out of trouble?

Those are just some questions off of the top of my head. :light:

Ken Cooke - 10-28-2014 at 08:55 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by MICK
Not sure if we are going to make it but our house is open for parking your rig. We are at Km48 on Hwy 5 and the road goes right over to LS and you could meet up with the group there.
Mick


MICK,

Thanks for chiming in. Your email popped in while I was thinking up solutions to tow rig parking. How much for the key to your place? That's real nice of you. We can make this trip a loop from Rio Hardy and back for the tow rigs. With Ejido Durango so close, this will make it easy for anyone with an off road vehicle to make the trip. Thanks again!

-Ken

Participant List

Ken Cooke - 10-28-2014 at 09:08 PM

So far, here is the list of interested parties:

TW
Tio Loco - Maybe
David K - Maybe
Paul W
John Marnell
E Hall
lsclav55
twgracing

There is still plenty of planning to incorporate - such as:

1. Who will join David K for his hunt for the Lost Diaz grave?
2. Will lsclav55 bring his side by side? Will Paul W carry extra gas?
3. Who will lead the group from Calexico to Cohabuzo Junction by noon on Saturday?
4. What level of communications will everyone be utilizing?
5. I plan on utilizing GPS technology on this trip - anyone else?

Regardless, without MICK's help, logistics would be a monster. Everyone needs to thank him for helping with this upcoming event. Very nice people!

-Ken

PaulW - 10-29-2014 at 06:16 AM

I have plenty of time for any DK search
I have radios in excess including 2 handhelds with all the race freqs. Just choose a freq
Once we get together the loaner handhelds are as good as the 50 watt mobiles for short distance. I expect my mobile will reach from Pozo to Cohabuzo?
I will have 10 gal extra
I will wait at Tres pozos for the rest of the party
John and I have the latest GPS track.
Mick solves the SxS parking issue. I could meet up at Micks and escort him to the group. I have always wanted to drive that road.
==========
Quote:
Originally posted by Ken Cooke
So far, here is the list of interested parties:

TW
Tio Loco - Maybe
David K - Maybe
Paul W
John Marnell
E Hall
lsclav55
twgracing

There is still plenty of planning to incorporate - such as:

1. Who will join David K for his hunt for the Lost Diaz grave?
2. Will lsclav55 bring his side by side? Will Paul W carry extra gas?
3. Who will lead the group from Calexico to Cohabuzo Junction by noon on Saturday?
4. What level of communications will everyone be utilizing?
5. I plan on utilizing GPS technology on this trip - anyone else?

Regardless, without MICK's help, logistics would be a monster. Everyone needs to thank him for helping with this upcoming event. Very nice people!

-Ken

Brennan - 10-29-2014 at 06:35 AM

This sounds great. You can tentatively add me to the list. I've got it on my calendar - tentative only because I may be on the PanAmerica Hwy somewhere in Central America by that time. But if not, this sounds great. I think I read someone asking about this trail on www.tlca.org just this week. So that might be a great place to post this.

Thanks for organizing!

Brennan
2014 Toyota 4 Runner Trail
Quote:
Originally posted by Ken Cooke
So far, here is the list of interested parties:

TW
Tio Loco - Maybe
David K - Maybe
Paul W
John Marnell
E Hall
lsclav55
twgracing

There is still plenty of planning to incorporate - such as:

1. Who will join David K for his hunt for the Lost Diaz grave?
2. Will lsclav55 bring his side by side? Will Paul W carry extra gas?
3. Who will lead the group from Calexico to Cohabuzo Junction by noon on Saturday?
4. What level of communications will everyone be utilizing?
5. I plan on utilizing GPS technology on this trip - anyone else?

Regardless, without MICK's help, logistics would be a monster. Everyone needs to thank him for helping with this upcoming event. Very nice people!

-Ken

TMW - 10-29-2014 at 09:24 AM

I'll help DK find the Diaz grave since XRPhLang and I did some of the preliminary work on it.

I suggest using 151.625Mhz (weatherman channel) for the VHF frequency since all race radios have it programmed.

I have CB, GMRS/FRS, VHF and UHF radios. Pick your frequency or channel.

I will have two 5 gallon cans of gas.

trip planning

John M - 10-29-2014 at 10:39 AM

I have a Lowrance GPS, which will have the route from Paul loaded.

Paul - I think you ought to find a way to make your route available to Ken so that he can take a close look at it so that he agrees with your assessment of the actual waypoints of the route. And to be sure that it is same as the route Ken plans to utilize.

Radios: TW - Weatherman frequency will work for me. I also have a CB & a higher power FSR radio with outside antenna.

Fuel - I'll be carrying ten gallons for my Tacoma but will probably use every last drop.

Calexico is a fine meeting place.

John M

ehall - 10-29-2014 at 05:57 PM

If race radios are tuned to 156.700 they can talk to channel 14 on marine band radios.

2 groups

Ken Cooke - 10-29-2014 at 08:05 PM

Thanks for your interest, Brennan in our 2015 event. Keep us posted if you plan on being in the region so that we know to look for you on the morning of April 4th.

I will have plenty of time prior to the run, but I will only have up until Easter Monday to return home. So, setting up will not be a problem - just, returning will be a bit rushed for me.

That being said, the run will begin Saturday - April 4th, and continue through Sunday - April 5th. We will camp out a second night at the big wash at the close of the run. David K and Paul W plan to research the location of the Lost Diaz Grave the next day. I plan to cross the border, then drive home. Along the way, I will assist with the tow rig before completely leaving for Mexicali and the USA.

As for communications, I do not have a Race Radio - just a CB radio, hard-mounted in my Jeep. I will be carrying two 5 gallon gas cans, and I have on-board air for the tires.

PaulW - 10-29-2014 at 09:11 PM

Ken,
When we mate up I will loan you a hand held race radio and a mag mount. Communication after that will be good.
I understand Both my rigs in the states have CBs
Paul

Ken Cooke - 10-29-2014 at 09:51 PM

Thanks for use of the radio, Paul W. Will it help if I bring along some batteries? Let me know, and I can bring some for the trip.

Even though this run is 5 months away, it sure is fun planning and talking about the fun we'll have looking at the Suzuki, taking pictures!!

PaulW - 10-30-2014 at 07:01 AM

Batts not needed. Handhelds have lion batts and I will provide the 12v charger that will top the thing off overnight or while driving. Our last usage indicates radio is good for 10 hours with my gabby wife. We use a pair to communicate for our two vehicle drive from CO to San Felipe.
Paul
======
Quote:
Originally posted by Ken Cooke
Thanks for use of the radio, Paul W. Will it help if I bring along some batteries? Let me know, and I can bring some for the trip.

Even though this run is 5 months away, it sure is fun planning and talking about the fun we'll have looking at the Suzuki, taking pictures!!

ehall - 10-30-2014 at 07:03 AM

what suzuki? what am I missing?

David K - 10-30-2014 at 07:09 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by ehall
what suzuki? what am I missing?


I think on one of Ken's runs in there, they came across a Samuri wrecked, and they made into some kind of shrine. A goat may have been sacrificed? :lol:

PaulW - 10-30-2014 at 01:04 PM

Jan 2014
The Zuk appears to have all it parts although they are in a very compressed state. It lies about 5-10' above the wash bed at: 31 35.42043 -115 24.61807
If you look on GE you can see where it came from over the cliffs.
Cliff: I could not drive to the cliff so here is where I turned around
31 35.22603, -115 25.13237

PLR Track

PaulW - 10-30-2014 at 01:15 PM

I noticed that some have never done the trip so I decided to make the GPS track more complete with out screwups removed. And add the Borrego access per request.

Updated track corrections or updates:
1) West end Mx3 Km103 to summit instead of Km109. Now avoids all the new fences and gates. Nothing new for the old timers. THe 103 track is the traditional track to the summit via Jamau road.
2) After summit (NE side) to avoid really bad road option at the "Y". Yup - we did the trip in the dark and took the most difficult way going up from the east-NE.
3) Borrego to Arroyo Grande option. This leg is a really crappy race road.
The base track remains unchanged
If you have my previous version, please delete it.
If you want the track send me your email
Regards, Paul

Ken Cooke - 10-30-2014 at 09:00 PM



[Edited on 10-31-2014 by BajaNomad]

David K - 10-30-2014 at 09:16 PM

Ken, check you Photobucket upload size!

ehall - 10-31-2014 at 07:20 AM

Thanks for the Gps track Paul. Now I need to get it copied and installed .

Ken Cooke - 10-31-2014 at 10:44 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by David K
Ken, check you Photobucket upload size!


I have the free Photobucket account. No size differentiation was provided.

David K - 11-1-2014 at 06:42 AM

When you click to upload the first time, click on the small gear symbol for upload options. See the first post in the Nomad Photo Gallery forum for examples.

Ken Cooke - 11-1-2014 at 11:27 AM

Paul - you mention a washout and detour on my BajaPoleLineGroup page, but I am trying to figure out where and how bad that washout is?

Could this be the 'skateboard ramp' that we all drive down? Its very off-camber, but nobody has rolled their vehicles down it...yet. LOL

PaulW - 11-1-2014 at 12:59 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Ken Cooke
Paul - you mention a washout and detour on my BajaPoleLineGroup page, but I am trying to figure out where and how bad that washout is?

Could this be the 'skateboard ramp' that we all drive down? Its very off-camber, but nobody has rolled their vehicles down it...yet. LOL

===
Probably that place? Nobody we were with wanted to take a chance. Looked to me that the track was completely gone. No need to try because several groups have since done the detour and it wont cause any delay at all.

lsclav55 - 11-6-2014 at 05:14 PM

I will not be able to make the Easter trip due to family conflicts. I do want to take several of my SXS buddies on a trip like that. We have a place to stay in San Felipe on a Friday night. Trailer to Borrego Junction and off load SXS early Saturday morning, camp 1/2 way through the trip. Next day finish up at the Valle de Trinidad. Have some one meet us there with trailers and load up and head for home. We all carry extra fuel, belts, tools, spares, tire kits, winches, etc. Not our first rodeo. We may end up going in mid March. We will take pics and post current info.

Ken Cooke - 11-6-2014 at 06:52 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Ken Cooke


[Edited on 10-31-2014 by BajaNomad]


When I first saw this Suzuki Sami, it was in nearly drivable condition. Not by a longshot, now.

Ken Cooke - 11-6-2014 at 06:54 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by lsclav55
I will not be able to make the Easter trip due to family conflicts. I do want to take several of my SXS buddies on a trip like that. We have a place to stay in San Felipe on a Friday night. Trailer to Borrego Junction and off load SXS early Saturday morning, camp 1/2 way through the trip. Next day finish up at the Valle de Trinidad. Have some one meet us there with trailers and load up and head for home. We all carry extra fuel, belts, tools, spares, tire kits, winches, etc. Not our first rodeo. We may end up going in mid March. We will take pics and post current info.


Being this is my 2nd Marriage, I know all too well about family conflicts.:lol:

Keep Mama happy, and the whole family will be happy.:yes:

Post pictures if you go in Mid March - when the weather will be cooler and more comfortable.

ehall - 1-16-2015 at 09:13 PM

Mr Ken Cooke. Please check your messages.

Ken Cooke - 1-19-2015 at 12:50 PM

Pole Line stickers were designed yesterday.

David K - 1-19-2015 at 06:25 PM

Quote: Originally posted by Ken Cooke  
Quote:
Originally posted by David K
Ken, check you Photobucket upload size!


I have the free Photobucket account. No size differentiation was provided.


All you great new photos exceed Doug's forum max width... The size tool on Photobucket has nothing to do with pay vs free.

When you click the upload button on your Photobucket album, you will see a small GEAR logo on the right corner... CLICK ON IT. Then pick 800 pixels for FULL Nomad page size pics or 640 pixels for large picks... the click SAVE.

Then upload the scan image of your sticker to show it off.

Ken Cooke - 1-19-2015 at 07:26 PM

Quote: Originally posted by David K  
Quote: Originally posted by Ken Cooke  
Quote:
Originally posted by David K
Ken, check you Photobucket upload size!


I have the free Photobucket account. No size differentiation was provided.


All you great new photos exceed Doug's forum max width... The size tool on Photobucket has nothing to do with pay vs free.

When you click the upload button on your Photobucket album, you will see a small GEAR logo on the right corner... CLICK ON IT. Then pick 800 pixels for FULL Nomad page size pics or 640 pixels for large picks... the click SAVE.

Then upload the scan image of your sticker to show it off.


I am through with Photobucket for the month. That website exceeded my patience for the entire year. I will present the Pole Line sticker when it becomes available around the first of March. As for Photobucket - I spent entirely too long on that website today. It has an antiquated user interface that doesn't entirely work with my cellphone (app). Complete garbage, IMO.

Ateo - 1-19-2015 at 07:30 PM

Mobile uploads don't seem to comply with my 800 pixels standard setting that I have on the computer when uploading to Photobucket.

David K - 1-20-2015 at 09:40 AM

If you find your uploads are bigger than 800, then simply go to the edit photo link and click on "re-size", save, replace original, done!

Guys, I am not a computer wizard... in fact, I am pretty much not... but some things I can do, I am sure you can too. Ken, when you are at home on a PC, call me and I will talk you through this size issue... it will take less than a minute. Same form you Jon, or anyone else who wants to post photos and not screw the size of the Nomad page.

Hi all

bajatrailrider - 1-24-2015 at 09:47 AM

Hi New member here, greetings I live in Baja full time.Im from W.LA. I would like to go on this trip.I have a Nissan( Mexican)frontier 2014 double cab short bed 4x4.Its small truck same as 2,000-04 frontier.Would this truck be suitable to make this run.Thank You Larry:D

TMW - 1-24-2015 at 11:15 AM

What size tires do you have? Minimum 31 inch recommended. Otherwise you'll be OK. We had a 1st Gen. Tacoma double cab with us on one run.

David K - 1-24-2015 at 11:37 AM

Quote: Originally posted by TMW  
What size tires do you have? Minimum 31 inch recommended. Otherwise you'll be OK. We had a 1st Gen. Tacoma double cab with us on one run.


In metric, that would be the typical stock size on Off Road package mini & mid size trucks: 265/70-16, or similar.

bajatrailrider - 1-24-2015 at 01:46 PM

I put 32in ATs on it.I put small lift 2in,its stick,turbo diesel.Is there much brush to go past.Or major rock step climbing.

TMW - 1-24-2015 at 04:34 PM

It depends on what the rains did to it. In the past not much brush only rocks in the arroyos which sometimes need to be moved or a good spotter to help. It's a fun run with some challenging areas.

Ken Cooke - 1-25-2015 at 05:44 PM

Quote: Originally posted by bajatrailrider  
I put 32in ATs on it.I put small lift 2in,its stick,turbo diesel.Is there much brush to go past.Or major rock step climbing.


There is no major rock crawling on this run. I have a video which shows a similarly equipped Toyota Tacoma doing very well across the terrain on this run.

You might need additional diesel fuel (5 gallons), depending on the range your truck gives for approximately 150 miles of slow-speed travel. My Jeep with a 4.0 liter engine requires that I carry an additional 10 gallons of gasoline in addition to a full engine - topping off along Hwy 2 just outside of Mexicali.

Link for run: https://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/justruns/conversations/m...

Run video:

bajatrailrider - 1-26-2015 at 10:30 PM

Thanks for info.Looks like you guys have a good time!

Quake near PLR

PaulW - 2-11-2015 at 09:58 AM

Earth quake @ 31 31.57, -115 39.92 on 2/8/2015 is in familiar territory. East of San Simon and about a mile E of the south summit track. Quite a ways south of the S smt.




David K - 2-11-2015 at 09:59 AM

Are you thinking landslide?

PaulW - 2-11-2015 at 11:42 AM

Sure crossed my mind since the EQ is so close.
Further exam Looks like the quake center is over the hill from the S Smt track. Do not have that topo so next best is the Murdock on the gps.


David K - 2-11-2015 at 12:28 PM

Weird place for a quake center (on top a mountain and not down in a fault (valley/ canyon)?

ehall - 2-12-2015 at 12:57 PM

More adventure! Can't wait . Really looking forward to this trip.

Ken Cooke - 2-14-2015 at 10:20 AM

I am selling t-shirts to commemorate this fun trip.

2015 BAJA POLE LINE T-SHIRTS - BAJA NOMAD LINK

Price - $15 + postage (Paypal available)

Sizes - Medium, Large, X Large, 2X Large (3X Large sold-out).

I already have 1/4 of the total order sold, better step up and place your orders today!

MICK provides RIO HARDY compound for night #2 of Pole Line Run

Ken Cooke - 2-15-2015 at 09:25 PM

...and who could say no?? MICK lives large beachfront along the Rio Hardy!:bounce:

MICK boating with the 2013 Baja Pole Line group


MICK and his rig


MICK's compound along the Rio Hardy

David K - 2-16-2015 at 09:20 AM

Option B: after the run... go look for Melchor Diaz' grave (or at least the pile of rocks frond my Walter Henderson in the 1930s)!

http://forums.bajanomad.com/viewthread.php?tid=26703

Update on who is in or ???

John M - 2-16-2015 at 06:03 PM

Hey Ken, I'm in!

How about an update on who is in, who is maybe or whatever?

We were at Neal Johns' house this past Saturday for the ----- the --- 25th wedding anniversary of he and Marian. But there were so many "wives in waiting" hanging around him that it was hard to talk to the old guy. But, I think it would be safe to say Neal is not among the adventurers on this trek.

Ya ought to see him driving his new 2015 'Vette!

John M

Ken Cooke - 2-16-2015 at 06:22 PM

A few people not on Baja Nomad are planning on going.

1. Mike (riding shotgun if he gets his passcard in time)
2. Huitzi and his wife.
3. David B - JustRuns 4x4 club
+ a few more are showing interest in the Los Angeles and Tijuana area.

David K - 2-16-2015 at 06:27 PM

Make sure that 'got baja?' sticker is still there... if not, the winch may be needed!!

ehall - 2-17-2015 at 05:49 AM

I had 3 other people interested until this conversation.
Me-we will be camping 2 nights
Them- You mean hotel camping right?
Me- No, I mean sleeping bag and a tent.
Them- oh,

Haven't heard from them since????

David K - 2-17-2015 at 08:39 AM

Quote: Originally posted by ehall  
I had 3 other people interested until this conversation.
Me-we will be camping 2 nights
Them- You mean hotel camping right?
Me- No, I mean sleeping bag and a tent.
Them- oh,

Haven't heard from them since????


What is "hotel camping" LOL??!!:lol:

PaulW - 2-17-2015 at 02:51 PM

For guys that live north of the border
Day 1 drive to Calixico or Mexicali stay at a hotel
Day 2 drive the PLR
Day 3 drive home from Valley Trinidad hotel.
Or do it in reverse order.
From San Felipe just get up early and do the round trip (115 miles).
Might be a little farther for the hotel version.
PW

Ken Cooke - 2-17-2015 at 03:13 PM

Quote: Originally posted by PaulW  
For guys that live north of the border
Day 1 drive to Calixico or Mexicali stay at a hotel
Day 2 drive the PLR
Day 3 drive home from Valley Trinidad hotel.
Or do it in reverse order.
From San Felipe just get up early and do the round trip (115 miles).
Might be a little farther for the hotel version.
PW

April 4 - Drive 1st portion of trail - camp near cobblestone hill
April 5 - Complete trail - camp at MICKs in Rio Hardy
April 6 - Depart before noon for USA or points south

Meet at Pep

John M - 2-17-2015 at 03:35 PM

Ken Cooke - 2-17-2015 at 04:02 PM

Quote: Originally posted by John M  


The Manager of the Calexico Pep Boys welcomes Pole Line people to use his parking lot as our reunion location - probably because of the quantity of last minute items we have purchased there over the years.

We will meet there before leaving for Mexicali. It is a good place to test CB radios, use the restroom, refill the ice chest - AM/PM is next door.

Meeting time is at 8 am - departure at 8:30

[Edited on 2-17-2015 by Ken Cooke]

my post got messed up

John M - 2-17-2015 at 05:11 PM

Meeting on the 3rd at what time?

Is CB the communication format for this adventure?

John

[Edited on 2-18-2015 by John M]

Ken Cooke - 2-17-2015 at 05:29 PM

Quote: Originally posted by John M  
Meeting on the 3rd at what time?

Is CB the communication format for this adventure?

John

[Edited on 2-18-2015 by John M]


Hi John,

Thanks for asking! We will use CB radios for line of sight communication Since it is basic and inexpensive.

We will meet on Saturday, April 4th at 8 am at the Pep Boys in Calexico, Ca.

[Edited on 2-18-2015 by Ken Cooke]

bajatrailrider - 2-19-2015 at 12:14 PM

Hi All Nomads,and thanks Ken for info. Im working on my truck,Hope to have ready.What channel for CB. If I stay in Mexicali hotel night before.Best way to meet(in Mexico). Larry

Ken Cooke - 2-19-2015 at 12:49 PM

Quote: Originally posted by bajatrailrider  
Hi All Nomads,and thanks Ken for info. Im working on my truck,Hope to have ready.What channel for CB. If I stay in Mexicali hotel night before.Best way to meet(in Mexico). Larry


Hi Larry - The Pole Line group plans to visit the PEMEX along HWY 2 in Progreso at the town's only four-way stoplight. Expect to see us gassing up our vehicles and filling our Jerry cans at 9 am. We will eat breakfast at Asadero Morlan - 1 block west of the PEMEX on Hwy 2 at 9:30 - 10:00 am. Please monitor CB CHANNEL 4 as we will be communicating on our radios after we pass through the border and make our way down COLEGIO MILITAR to MEX HWY 2.

Neal Johns - 2-20-2015 at 02:24 PM

Ken, I got the 2015 Pole Line Road T-shirt you sent and immediately put it on. We were having a tree removal "party" and I told the workers and friends that I was a Hero. Actually you are the Hero as you have led an equal number of Pole Line trips and accept anyone who has the proper equipment to make it to the end. I thing all three things are great: The T-shirt, the Pole Line Road, and especially you. Now that I have sucked up to you, keep the T-shirts coming! :lol::lol::lol:

Neal - 84 and still here.

I am wearing Neal Johns, too!

David K - 2-20-2015 at 04:55 PM

Thanks Ken, my shirt arrived today...





Reprint of the Discover Baja Travel Club newsletter Pole Line Road artical by Neal Johns, on the back.

bajatrailrider - 2-27-2015 at 09:29 PM

What Im I missing,I see 1942 pole line video,also video getting lost. Where Im I missing video of actual trip from last year. Have old freind that wants to join,but dont see that part.Thanks Guys

David K - 2-27-2015 at 11:24 PM

Quote: Originally posted by bajatrailrider  
What Im I missing,I see 1942 pole line video,also video getting lost. Where Im I missing video of actual trip from last year. Have old freind that wants to join,but dont see that part.Thanks Guys


Not sure there was a video from last year, or even a run?? Ken has done several of them and each one has its own bit of drama it seems. Mostly a Jeep run, but Tacomas and a big GMC have gone too.

While the video in his posts says Pole Line Road with me, it is more of a show about how I got in love with Baja and my books... but from about 2006 (I have many more books added since). I have not been on the Pole Line Road (yet) but have read about it since the 1960's in my copy of the Lower California Guidebook.

I think I can go this year, but it being on Easter Sunday and the day before is a little tough when you are a grandfather... If I can find the Lost Diaz Grave afterwards, then I can bring home a golden egg for my grand kids, perhaps?

bajatrailrider - 2-28-2015 at 11:54 AM

thanks David,what we would like to see,is video of the harder spots.The part over rock bridge,I understand you guys where lost so dont need go that way? Since I would be driving my few month old truck.Just need to make sure I dont make it look.Like all the other junk trucks I have.Its not a trailer Queen,but would not like to destroy on one run..:)

TMW - 2-28-2015 at 12:38 PM

On the two runs I made with Ken I thought the roughest part was the down hill turn. This is about 3/4 of the way thru, maybe more. It was rough only in the sense that it had lots of rocks, not really big, just lots of them so it was slow going with a turn near the bottom. Anywhere there is large rocks to navigate there is someone to spot you to prevent damage. I never had any ding on my sides or under my truck. I was running 31 inch tires on my 93 Toyota.

Ken Cooke - 2-28-2015 at 01:16 PM

On the Wrong Way Enmedio video, a stock Tacoma with 2.5" of lift completed the run without any damage to it. We will drive slowly and carefully through the sections where 4WD is needed.

David K - 2-28-2015 at 01:37 PM

Quote: Originally posted by bajatrailrider  
thanks David,what we would like to see,is video of the harder spots.The part over rock bridge,I understand you guys where lost so dont need go that way? Since I would be driving my few month old truck.Just need to make sure I dont make it look.Like all the other junk trucks I have.Its not a trailer Queen,but would not like to destroy on one run..:)


While I value the Tacoma and don't intentionally try to damage it, I do recognize its purpose and that it is a 4WD truck... So, when dings happen, it becomes a badge of honor... my biggest ding is just below the rear bumper when it fell onto a rock ledge just as we approached Mission Santa Maria. That ended up pulling my back bumper away from the truck like a can opener removing a top! I replaced the bumper as it could not be straightened... but the ding is there and doesn't have any negative affects on the truck's abilities. Ask Ken or TW how the Pole Line Road compares to the Mission Santa Maria road.



Here is where that happened:



Art's van had the same connection as me, but others did not...



Returning up the 'widowmaker' (BajaTripper photos)



 Pages:  1    3