Concern on driving from MI to TX

Aedds · #1 (**permalink**) 05-14-2011, 09:01 AM

Here's the question: I'm buying a cobra in Michigan and having a friend drive it to Texas. He will be on the insurance policy for 3 days while driving the car. He will have the title some other TX form and a bill of sale all signed over to me as the owner. The car will have the MI plates while it's in route but what if he gets pulled over? I can see it being a real issue if the cop is not understanding the car is in transport. Should I have the seller sign a different document that he released the car to my friend for transport. Is impounding the car a major concern here? I'm trying to think of the worst but hoping for the best. I know I'm not the only one who has done this so any help would be appreciated.

gsharapa · #2 (**permalink**) 05-14-2011, 09:16 AM

If he has a bill of sale he should be fine. A document that he releast it to your friend in stated condition would be something the seller may want to do anyway. Have you looked into the cost to ship it her as that 22 plus hours and about time you pay for the gas, at least one hotel room you might not be to far away from the cost of shipping it. There are some good deals out there right now plus no risk of the car going through bad weather...just a thought.

Aedds · #3 (**permalink**) 05-14-2011, 09:33 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by gsharapa

If he has a bill of sale he should be fine. A document that he releast it to your friend in stated condition would be something the seller may want to do anyway. Have you looked into the cost to ship it her as that 22 plus hours and about time you pay for the gas, at least one hotel room you might not be to far away from the cost of shipping it. There are some good deals out there right now plus no risk of the car going through bad weather...just a thought.

Yea the average shipping cost was about 1100. With him driving I am paying for gas and a hotel room. Not sure how many miles to the gallon a 302 with a '90 stock tank gets but im guessing somewhere around 12-15? The only other thing I worry about is the car at night. I'm not sure how to keep it safe so no one steals it while he is sleeping! I guess if they really want it there is nothing I can do... maybe put a super loud alarm on it? Yes the weather is a concern to but since he is a pilot he knows what to look for....

littlewave · #4 (**permalink**) 05-14-2011, 09:40 AM

My .02.Ship it. It's safe and insured.

computerworks · #5 (**permalink**) 05-14-2011, 09:41 AM

Also consider the chance of one breakdown...flat bed tow, service, etc... that will put you on the wrong side of that $1100 shipping charge.

Aedds · #6 (**permalink**) 05-14-2011, 10:11 AM

ok maybe I will look at shipping the car on an open carrier and have it shrink wrapped before transport.... i'm second guessing everything now!

patrickt · #7 (**permalink**) 05-14-2011, 10:27 AM

Ship the car. I've yet to go a season without breaking down somewhere. These cars are incredibly temperamental. And even though my car is now in the best condition that it has ever been in, I still wouldn't trust that it could make it all the way from MI to TX without a breakdown.

Bill Wells · #8 (**permalink**) 05-14-2011, 11:25 AM

great advice so far - SHIP IT as first option...enclosed trailer.

That 302 should be good for low 20 mpg on highway at 75 mph, btw.

IF you do drive it, make sure he knows how to put on top and side curtains, disconnect battery at night, do NOT believe the gas gauge- fill it often and ensure he has a AAA RV plus card ( good here for 100 mi of FLATBED towing ) , some basic tools, RainX on the windshield , 1 quart of oil, and a Cell Phone.

Sun lately has been optional, so sun screen need is 50'50.

Enjoy your new toy........Bill

TXBLU · #9 (**permalink**) 05-16-2011, 09:35 AM

I'll drive it back for you, but it'll take me 4 days; I drive slow!!!

Eric

Aedds · #10 (**permalink**) 05-16-2011, 10:12 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by TXBLU

I'll drive it back for you, but it'll take me 4 days; I drive slow!!!

Eric

Haha! I don't know if this sale is going to go through at this point!

Dennis Mosley · #11 (**permalink**) 05-16-2011, 10:24 AM

Unless your friend is just looking to have a road trip in a cool car, Ship it! The potential hassle isn't worth the drive.

On the other hand, If your friend is looking for adventure and you don't mind the miles, potentially getting soaked and maybe a break down or two, then driving would be the way to go. But if all that stuff is happening with my car, I want to be there to "enjoy" it too.

Hope your sale goes through.

G-Pete · #12 (**permalink**) 05-16-2011, 02:54 PM

If it would be me and I had a buddy who is willing to drive...renting a U-Haul truck about $100 a day and a 2 axle trailer - about $60 a day and drive the 20 hrs down here in on leap. The cabs on the trucks are comfy and you can sleep/watch a movie while the buddy drives and vice verso.

For the money you save (hotel and so) you have a nice dinner - and a good night out with your buddy.

You start Friday morning and by late Saturday you are in the lone star state, still daylight left for a round on the home strip.

...ask your wife, if this what she likes.

Aedds · #13 (**permalink**) 05-16-2011, 06:51 PM

These all sound great unfortunately this car is now out.

We cant come to an agreement on the price.

rustyBob · #14 (**permalink**) 05-16-2011, 08:44 PM

Aedds....sent you a PM