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United X

PRESIDENT'S CORNER

By Steve Hansen

Welcome to TE/AE's Tenth Anniversary United Newsletter! In these pages, you will find a complete record of the once-in-a-lifetime events which made up United X and which transformed the Indianapolis Motor Speedway and its Motor Hotel into "Sunbeam Heaven" for four memorable days in October!

First of all, it seems appropriate to say that we've once again broken all United attendance records. Nearly 250 people converged on Indy from October 9th through 12th, and the very special Tenth-anniversary Awards Banquet was attended by an over-capacity crowd of about 225 people! (We couldn't quite count the folks in the very back rows!)

Thursday afternoon as the first hardy travelers arrived in Speedway, Indiana, a record number of vendors eagerly divided the parts swap room pausing to look out the windows at the adjacent golfers on the Hotel's 18-hole course. Later that evening we all fired up the Alpines and Tigers for a unique Progressive Supper that began with dessert at "Bill's Fabulous 50's", served by real roller skating carhops, and ended with 'Beamers breaking up into smaller groups to sample their choice of fine cuisine at any of more than a dozen Indy restaurants.

Thursday evening was our first chance to sample the TE/AE Hospitality ambience of Mrs. Tony Hulman's private suite overlooking Turn Two of the

speedway. With a variety of racing videos and Sunbeam slides on view and refreshment for 'Beamers who might still be hungry or thirsty, the Tower Suite was just the right way to end Day One of United X ....

Friday morning saw newcomers continuing to fill the Stutz Room, checking into the United, picking up their goodie bags, and flagging a huge map of the U.S. that showed everyone's hometown. This was certainly graphic proof that we were indeed attracting Tiger and Alpine enthusiasts from all over--28 states plus Canada as it turned out! Some people made one last Banzai run through the Parts Swap room before Concours d'Elegance preparation that morning ...while those of a more athletic persuasion were able to join a walking tour of the track--all two and one half miles of it!

If the sight of nearly 100 Sunbeam owners engaging in the familiar pre-Concours Simoniz and ArmorAll rituals was not enough, the assemblage of pristine Tigers and Alpines lined up on famed Pit Lane (under a bright October sun) was certainly an unforgettable spectacle. Added to this was the opportunity for a personalized photo of car and owner on the track-with Pit Lane and the timing tower in the background (a unique addition to everyone's Sunbeam photo album).

But the real highlight of Friday (and possibly the entire event, according to many) was not one, but two parade laps around the Indy 500 Motor Speedway itself! Words cannot really do justice to the sights--and sounds--of Tigers and Alpines, three abreast, circling those 2.5 miles in what seemed like only seconds! Then it was down Pit Lane for a driver swap so that the first lap passengers could also experience this once-in-a-lifetime thrill. It really seemed as if the Speedway was meant for the sounds of this Sunbeam symphony echoing off its walls!

All too soon, it was time to reassemble for an informative tech session highlighting Sunbeams in competition--with expert commentary and tips from successful Rootes campaigners of the past and present. After a full--and enjoyable--day at the track, it was on to dinner followed by a group tour of the Hall of Fame Museum adjacent to the track. Here we marveled at the surprising evolution of Indy racecars over the last 75 years, a visit made all the more meaningful by our on-track experience!

Saturday morning brought a choice of Indy-area tours: a selection of race shops for those who had not had their fill of competition and an Indy city tour, highlighted by a visit to the Children's (and Adult's) Museum, as well as the Hoosier Dome and restored Union Station ....

And United X will also be remembered for the First Annual TE/AE Golf Tournament held on Saturday afternoon and ably coordinated by Mike Mooney (more details, including names, handicaps and alibis, are inside). The second of two Standing Room Only Tech Sessions was held later on Saturday afternoon; and once everyone's restoration problems had been solved, we adjourned to the pre-banquet cocktail hour with a slide show featuring previous United action.

The United X Awards Banquet was a notable success in spite of your President's podium efforts. Bill Miller shared his reminiscences and thoughts about the late Ian Garrad, who was to have been our keynote speaker. Bill's heartfelt words were a moving tribute to a man who meant so much to us--and we all raised our glasses in sympathy and tribute.

Along with the Contours trophies, special awards were bestowed upon the sizable California contingent from CAT and S.T.O.A. who added so much to United X. And in addition to Lord Rootes Trophy winners Tom and Kathy Calvert, Wally Swift presented a special memento to Dave and Elnore Lawler on the occasion of their 25th Anniversary.

Again this year, several generous corporate donations made the door prize awards successful, and Messrs. M. Smith and M. Mooney provided light moments with their own presentations: the first a tongue-in-cheek "tribute" to Wally Swift, and the second a hilarious recap of the earlier action on the links with its own unique awards!

A last-chance parts swap ended Saturday evening, and Sunbeamers retreated to the Hospitality Suite once more (or turned in early to prepare for Sunday's autocross), However, the fine weather with which we'd all been blessed turned cold and WET for the autocross held at a nearby Chrysler facility. But the precipitation could not put a damper on the atmosphere of good fellowship that always accompanies a United! We all headed back home reflecting on this United X--in many ways a fitting close to the first ten years of Tigers East/Alpines East--a tribute to those stalwart few who began this club in 1976 never dreaming that one day there would be hundreds of us gathering to celebrate Sunbeam ownership--and a reflection on those who have put so much of themselves into Tigers East/ Alpines East during the past decade. It was a landmark weekend!

Thanks to United X Event Coordinator Barry Schonberger and all of his Committee Chairpersons who organized such a fine event to mark our first ten years. Well over one year of planning went into four unforgettable days--and it showed!

And thanks to our Officers, Board Members, Membership Chairpeople, Newsletter Editor--everyone--for making these past two years as rewarding as they have been for me. I'm sure our new officers will enjoy the same support as we move into 1987-and that will mean our second decade will be off to a flying start!

CONCOURS d'ELEGANCE

by Mike Smith

Folks, what can I say about the concours at United X, Indianapolis? Well, I would like to report that everything ran like a well-oiled machine; but I would be telling a falsehood.

The pre-planning by Schonberger and crew were exact, precise, and well executed in the beginning; but when you people (I am writing this for those of you who were not able to experience this first-hand) drove into the famous brickyard, the organization went to h--- and you became kids in the proverbial candy store. The annual pre-concours meeting, which is held just prior to judging and is always attended by everyone showing a car was for the most part this year a hello, have fun, and goodbye to a handful of people.

Do you have any idea where all of our mature and generally level-headed members were while this important meeting was being held? There they were--running around with two things on their collective minds: "Where and when are the track photos to be taken.", and "What time are we going to hot-lap the track.".

Really, I'm just kidding as the concours this year went very smoothly with just a few errors. We added a class this year due to the number of competition cars that were pre-registered. Judges had to spend a little more time scoring due to the fact that we had cars spread out over one-quarter of a mile.

All in all the whole day was just terrific! One couldn't help but to get caught up in the atmosphere of the most famous speedway in the world. The most important thing is that we were there--participating, enjoying and remembering--TOGETHER.

I would like to thank the following people who helped this year to bring you a quality, professional, yet fun event:

Alpine-Judges Tiger Judges
Martyn Tripp Bob Grubbs
Bert Szulc Jim Morrison
Dave Reina Dan Cameron
Armin Urbin Gary Hellings
Scott Woerth Bill Bulpitt
Roadibility  Tallying Scores
Dave Johnson Andrea Hellings
Ken Bishop


CONCOURS D'ELEGANCE RESULTS
UNITED X, INDY, OCTOBER 10, 1986

Stock Tiger

  • 1st Scott & Bobbi Woerth, Christiana, PA
  • 2nd Gary & Julia Ballard, Indianapolis, IN
  • 3rd Wally Swift, Beltsville, MD

Stock Alpine

  • 1st Joanne Ehrhart, Harrisburg, PA
  • 2nd Lee Pennell, Lenoir, NC
  • 3rd Joan Farmer, Basking Ridge, NJ

Personalized Tiger

  • 1st Ron & Pat Heinz, Jamestown, OH
  • 2nd John Engle, Kettering, OH
  • 3rd Dean McEnery, West St. Paul, MN

Personalized Alpine

  • 1st Steve Masse, Dayton, OH
  • 2nd Dave & Elnore Lawler, Harleysville, PA
  • 3rd Robert Webb, Waverly, OH

Modified Sunbeam 

  • 1st Gene Boone, Norcross, GA
  • 2nd Doug Bullard & Pat Parsley, Westminster, CO
  • 3rd Tom Ehrhart, Harrisburg, PA

Competition 

  • 1st Tiger, Larry Marzano, Gurnee, IL
  • 2nd Alpine, Wally Swift, Beltsville, MD
  • 3rd Tiger, Curt Bowland, Crystal Lake, IL

Most Desirable Tiger 

  • 1st Gene Boone, Norcross, GA
  • 2nd Gary & Andrea Hellings, Warrington, PA
  • 3rd Tom Stoyle, Mentor, OH

Most Desirable Alpine

  • 1st Bert & Cindy Szulc, Bordentown, NJ
  • 2nd Teddy Ax, Boulder, CO
  • 3rd Ed Atkinson, Romulus, MI

TECH SESSION

by T. T. Cantwin

As basic as the Alpine and Tiger are, there is always an abundance of new ideas, patches and new/old timers willing to share in their knowledge. The tech tip session was organized by Tiger Auto's Doug Jennings this year. Dave Johnson volunteered to put together a mini tech tip manual to pass out, and he did. (Pass out the manual, not pass out.) Oh well, we'll pass on this. Bill Miller, previous STOA president now captured in the TE/AE land of Tennessee, gave a presentation on "rack-n-pinion" rebuild. His recommendation--don't give it to a professional who has_the_spare parts to do it correctly.

Dave Reina, using an actual ragtop frame and a new ragtop, went through the motions reviewing the tricks of installing a top. Tom Patton, driver/owner of TangTeam Tiger and manager of Somerel Tire in Cincinnati, OH, gave us the latest scoop on tire sizes, fitment in and outside our fenderwells, rims, offset considerations. Tom knows all about tires. He gets around--pun intended.

Along with these speakers Doug and some others fielded general question and answers from all in attendance. And most owners at the meet were at the session.

After what seemed like too short a time, never enough time to talk about our prodigal hobby, Doug and Tiger Tom split up the Tiger and Alpine owners and went off into the corners to discuss their peculiarities (Doug with the Tiger owners and Tom with the Alpine owners).

BOGEY

by Mike Mooney

Where else can you boast good company, fine food, great cars, a world famous racetrack and race environs, and the now famous, world acclaimed annual TE/AE United Golf Tournament. Nowhere but at the United X.

What?? You didn't sign up for this prestigious event!?! Participation was limited to only twenty players, but the fun we had far surpassed the diminutive numbers of golfers.

The course is touted as the only one with a nine-hole course totally within the infield of an international racetrack. We did not play that one, but we did experience fun on the outer 18-hole course with stuff like the "Turn Two Hazard (TTH)" and "Hit the Chipmunk off the fairway."

TTH was on the ninth fairway where the course was so narrow that if the ball was hit with a slight slice (right curve for those non-players), it was lost over the fence and claimed by--you guessed it--Turn Two.

The Chipmunk Came was initiated by our team (Phil and Mike) on the third hole where three or four of these furry little creatures did a fine job of totally distracting Phil Perron from his game. If you attended the awards banquet, just the mention of Phil's score (166), which garnered the "Worst Game Of The Year" Prize, laid claim to what irreparable damage was done by these "cute" little @#$%C&*!'s.

Now I have to apologize to all of the players who hit their Tiger balls at Indy. I have the list of players who registered; but somewhere between Indiana and my word processor, the list of final scores got lost, except--that is--for Phil Perron (See above score--heh, heh, ahem), Jerry Dinser (120), Steve Hoffman (150), ? Sesslar (95), Curt Hoffman (153) and me (122). These I found on some of the scorecards handed me following the game.

We had five. prizes awarded to Best Game--Scratch, Best Game--Handicap, Closest to the Pin--4th hole, Longest Drive--15th hole and, of course, Worst Game of the Year.

As usual, Murphy's Law will probably be used in that the list will, suddenly appear on my desk the day after you read this in the newsletter.

The presentation of the awards served two purposes; first was to let the club members and the world honor these gifted golfers; second, we held reveille that night at the dinner hall. Gotta get that of blood flowing or rigor mortis 'll set in, y' know.

With the '86 games over and committed to history, we'll be looking forward to hitting the Tiger balls next yeah. I just hope that there's a course nearby the next United. If not, we'll have to be content with aiming some balls at the nearest chipmunks outside the hotel!

INDY OR BUST

A FUNNY THING HAPPENED ON THE WAY TO THE UNITED...

by Bobbi Woerth

Every club/event has its share of war stories and TE/AE is definitely no exception (have I ever told you about my first hour with my first Tiger? Room for that in another newsletter.). Our trek to Indy brought people together from coast to coast and the resulting list of casualties might make any sane person stop and consider our passion. However, being as departed as we are from the sensible thing to do, we take calamity as part of everyday living (wire coat hangers as a major shock item of the spares cache definitely proves that).

I guess I should claim myself, as the first casualty--3 year olds with a fever of 103 F can't be fixed with a coat hanger and duct tape. I keep telling myself: there's always next year ....

Some other exciting Sunbeam adventures were had by Keith Queen (CA) who faced and defied a burned out starter and clutch/pressure plate problems. Carol & Dennis Mancini (CA) handled a number of minor nuisances and a totally destroyed axle bearing gave them the United extra: an exciting ride in a tow truck (what a unique entrance to the United!). Not to be bored on the way home, they took the time to go deer hunting (next time we suggest a bow & arrow, not the front end of a Tiger. Headlines like "TIGER MUTILATES BAMBI--story on page 53" can only cause total panic in some small towns).

Bernie Selmanski hassled with his starter and generator and finally faced the ultimate--officer friendly. Breakdowns can be tolerated, but twenty-year-old cars should be exempt from tickets, especially when one drives in from CA! Frank & Margot Simms (CA) faced the same officer friendly (group discounts?).

Dr. John & Holly Bruney (OH) drove their Harrington LeMans in a little late after repairing a fan through the radiator.

Mike Mooney and Pedro Posadas (NY) were rumored to have been hailed by officer friendly in KY along the Interstate (any truth to that nasty tidbit, boys?).

Frank & Edith Parker (TX) had some prince of darkness difficulties; generator to alternator or vice versa got them back home--we hope.

Then there's the Kathmanns (NM ex PA)... John swears there is absolutely no connection whatever between the Sunday autocross and the Monday trip to the trans shop (we hope the new one is guaranteed for as long as you own the car).

Well, that's the list as we heard them. There are probably more, but those are the only "You think you had it bad" tales relayed to yours truly. Several observations can be made from the above

list: 1)Sunbeam owners are a hardy and determined lot when it comes to their cars, and 2) The road to Indy is not paved with spares (just littered with some discards). See ya in Valley Forge!

DEAR TE/AE:

This correspondence is to your entire group in care of the United X at Indianapolis. That was an outstanding event that was put together. So many times it is so easy to be critical and say that so & so could have been improved--nothing is perfect, but I will say you came as close as possible to achieving that perfection. All of your officers and directors conducted themselves in the most professional way in putting this event together. There was something going on at all times as well as adding things like the golf and tours downtown was terrific.

The conversation in care of a National United in '89 certainly attracted the attention of all the people that I came in contact with you sure have my vote. If I can be of any assistance in any way, please do not hesitate to let me know.

A very satisfied member,
Darrell G. Brunn

 

Renewing my membership. The newsletters have been excellent. The United at Indy was even better!

What could be better than riding around the Indy track at 100 MPH, snapping pictures with Wally Swift as the driver in his autocross Alpine!?!

The tech sessions on racing Sunbeams (old and new), concours and, of course, the awards banquet were great. I finally got my Alpine back together with an overdrive trance; it works great, and we're ready for next year's United!

John West

WHAT LIFE IN THE PARTS EMPORIUM?

by Tom Ehrhart

Just ask Doug Jennings (Tiger Auto), Ed Gullett (Automotive Fine Art), Jim D'Amelio (Commonwealth Auto), Ken Bishop (TE/AE Club regalia), Rick McLeod (Sunbeam Specialties), and--of course--Mr. and Mrs. Tiger Tom. Mrs. T. T. stood by in the parts room virtually the entire time the parts room was open. Even helping to handle some of CATS' wares hand carried in by Tom McDaniels, CAT VP. Okay, so much for the commercial. As you can see, the Whose Who of the parts world were right there at INDY.

With the ever-ambitious schedule put together by Barry Schonberger, it was near impossible for all to take care of their spares inventories and enjoy the "spectacle" of Indy. So this year (like the past) the parts emporium was turned on and off during periods of group activity. The concept worked rather well and prevented conflicts since so many owners tend to hang around the spares so much. There always seems to be some sort of entertainment value in our spares: Heavens know why--an Austin Healy owner would not even bat an eyelash (except George and Nina Null).

Aside from Tiger Tom's anchor store, used spares from many owners were scattered about in the room. Facilities were provided for all to display their wares. Even the parking lot was used. I mean, when they pull in with flatbed trailers loaded with used parts, it poses a challenge for the best of organizers. You can only put so much into a 2000 square foot area ...but we tried.

A TE/AE United parts swap is a very special institution. Everything from some owner's junk pile to the last OEM gadget show up. If you want that hard-to-find part (N0, impossible part) you have to experience a TE/AE United. Even Chuck Silvey, a local Indy owner who is attempting to restore a MkII with only OEM spares, made the trek to skim the pickins.

This was a successful year for both buyers and sellers. Some of the sellers made significant contributions towards the banquet awards. Recipients of the door prizes will attest that the gamble of attending a TE/AE United was well worthwhile. Winners of these items went home just a little happier.

COMPETITION SEMINAR

relayed by Bill Miller

United X participants were able to meet and share the technical expertise and experiences of guest panelists:

  • Don Sesslar - SCCA National Champion (Alpine), campaigned a Tiger in 1965.
  • Tom Patton - Current Tiger competitor in SCCA GT2.
  • Larry Marzano - Current Tiger competitor in SVRA - historic.
  • Curt Bowland - Current Tiger competitor in SVRA - historic.
  • Barry Schonberger - Current Tiger competitor in SCCA Solo II; B Prod National Champion, 1985.
  • Bill Miller - "Retired" autocross competitor (Tiger).
  • Doug Jennings - Sponsor, "engineer", resource (Tiger, Alpine).

After short, biographic introductions, the panelists took several minutes to relate their area of interest/expertise. A question and answer discussion period followed, touching on brakes, gasoline quality, wheel & dire combinations and body stiffness. A condensed version of the topics follow.

Brakes

The four-wheel disc systems on Patton's, Schonberger's and the Hollywood Race Car were highlighted. Tom Patton has been allowed to install 11" discs in his system. He has found that BMW discs can be adapted. Doug Jennings of Dayton, OH, "Tiger Auto" suggested that the 1962 Alpine system with no booster, 7/8" rear cylinders, and a 3/4" diameter master cylinder was the component mix he had gotten the best performance from. Participants suggested that "velvet touch" lined brakes were the desired components if they could be found.

Gasoline Quality

A fair degree of concern was expressed about gasoline quality by the street enthusiasts. Little info is available to confirm or refute concern road racing Tigers use racing quality gasoline. Street Tiger competitors have not encountered valve train damage that is documented as caused by low lead levels in the fuel. The consensus was that too few performance miles had been logged and that the real effect was still to be encountered. Most participants are blending leaded regular with unleaded high test at the pump, many combinations work. Several lead additives were discussed as being recently available. Most panelists recommended reductions in compression ratios as a prudent step to take during engine preparation. Valves, valve seats, and valve guides all should be watched closely as the remaining lead is phased out of today's gasoline.

Wheel and Tire Combinations

13" to 15" diameter and 4.5" to 10" widths were discussed. It is difficult to settle on a single combination for stock of modified due to body and fender variations. Generally, the front valence panel will require trimming to permit increased width tires. Fit checking combinations on the car is recommended.

Observed during the convention were front widths to 6" with 205/60 aspect ratio tires and rear widths to 7" with 215/60 aspect ratio tires under stock wheel wells. (some trimming may have been done).

Uni Body Stiffness

Each competitor acknowledged that high performance driving has a negative effect on body stiffness. Door fit and sag problems are obvious results. Tom Patton has put the problem behind him with a tube frame and fiberglass body parts. For the other panelists, the only required actions have been observing a prudent inspection schedule of body and frame components and bungee cords to keep doors closed.

Our panelists and some of their cars will be highlighted in future newsletters.

NUMBER PLEASE . . .

As ever, we always have our eyes open for interesting reading. Well-we found some tags worth mentioning at this United:

  • VA   TYGRRR
  • TN   IGOTAV8
  • GA  TIGRR 8
  • WI   TIGER 1
  • PA  2-TIGER
  • PA   1-TIGER
  • CA   1-BD CAT
  • -- 62-SUN
  • PA   ALPINE
  • OH   CU
  • CA   EL TIGER

AUTOCROSS

The skies had threatened; but Thursday, Friday and Saturday had turned out to be A-okay days. Sunday, well, you can't have everything .... Early morning was on the dark side, and then the silver linings parted to dump rain with a capital R. Wally Swift passed up his Panama hat in favor of foul weather gear to traverse this mini version of the Panama Canal. Someone said they'd take pontoons over their Yokohamas--FTD's are set by thinking like that!

In any case, an autocross with the potential for greatness (with almost three dozen preregistered and the collection of competition class cars--such promise, oh such promise...) was--literally--washed up. The brave and courageous lot who faced the elements did have lots of fun; much like the common bath scene on a larger scale using Sunbeams instead of rubber duckies.

Because of the adverse conditions, no stock (by SCCA autocross rules) Tigers or Alpines entered and not all the entrants completed their allowable number of runs. Around of applause for the hardy few. We are listing their best times below and sending each a box of A1ka Seltzer Plus.

Special thanks to the Chrysler Corp. for their generous support in providing site and covering trophy expenses.

Modified Tiger: 

  • Tom Patton 62.132
  • Scott Woerth 62.537
  • John Kathmann 63.457
  • Curt Bowland 65.586
  • Dan Walters 74.614

Modified Alpine: 

  • Wally Swift 60.241
  • Rick McLeod 72.503
  • FTD: Wally Swift 60.241

SPECIAL GUEST

Don Sesslar of Columbus, Ohio, was TE/AE's special guest at the Tenth Anniversary United. Don's racing experience started with sports cars in 1957 driving a Porsche Spyder finishing 12th that year in SCCA National Championship Points. In 1958 driving a Porsche 550RS, he finished 2nd in National Points. In 1959 driving a Porsche RSK, Don won his first National Championship and was awarded the prestegious SCCA President's Cup. That same year, he placed 4th overall in the 12 hours of Sebring, first in class and second on the index of performance.

Late in 1960 Don started racing a Series I Alpine. In 1961 he placed third in National points in the Alpine improving to second in 1962 driving a Series II Alpine. In 1963 he tied for the National Championship in points and in 1964 he won the Championship outright in the Series II.

1965 found Don and his team developing the ex-Shelby built Tiger and then a Tiger of their own design. In the process the B Production record at Mid-Ohio was set by Don in the Tiger, and he placed in the runner up position that year at the SCCA National Championships.

Don looks back with fond memories to his years with the Sunbeam Marque. He went on to serve as the SCCA Classification Committee Chairman following a well-known, Sunbeam name: Lew Spencer. Don served two years on the SCCA Competition Board. Don's participation in the Sebring race and Nassau Speed Weeks covered nine years driving Porsches and the Sunbeam Tiger.

Today Don's competition experience is focused on driving the pace car for the Annual IMSA Street Race in Columbus. Our thanks to Don fox sharing his experiences with us at United X.

UNITED X OR THE CAT'S PAJAMAS

by Mike Mooney

Who was that masked man? We, Pedro Posadas ('67 Tiger MkII) and I, had just finished a thirteen-hour trip from the Big Apple in our Tigers and settled down in the Motel (great location) on 16th in Indianapolis. Hell, I didn't even see any Indians there.

I parked my tacky Tiger in front of Room 141 with "The Beautiful One" next to it. I think that the only reason he brought me along was to make him look good. All week long it seemed to stick its tongue out at mine because it was so pretty. God, I can't stand it. I mean... the mechanicals in my '65 were more than perfect and ran like a well-timed Swiss watch.

But Pedro's had to have a triple by-pass somewhere near Akron, OH, in one of those out-of-the-way gaseous stations. Yeah! The fuel pump took a trip south, but luckily, we had two (2) spare ones in my boot.

You know--when you travel with a Tiger, you have to keep just about a spare car behind for repairs.

Picture this scene. Pedro had never known another Tiger owner until I popped in one day as he parked his "cat" in front of an auto parts store and I yelled at him to join us. Now he thinks that Tiger people are some of the greatest folks in the hemisphere.

As the Alpines/Tigers started to drift in, we started to appreciate all of the reasons we joined TE/AE. Indy started to really look good.

With nary an eyewink, up pops this cat in his pajamas. Let me reiterate. This was a real tall cat in his a11-together. He popped in here and popped out there and gave everybody a fun time. I even got a picture with him at the Speedway!

We perused our way through the swap meet and parts swap. All of those things that we "have to get" for our particular 'Beam over the past few months were there for sale. No excuse now, guys 'n gals. We gotta keep those Rooters rollin'.

Thursday passed without a hitch with this "Tiger" fellow moving about without anyone taking credit. Friday was great with the Concours and that great drive about at the Speedway. Lordy! Some of us even reached into the triple numbers on the of speedo at the brickyard!

If there was ever a true "Tiger Rush" this was it. I mean, here we were parked in front of these racing "pits" with all of the famed names with our particular prize-winners) and enjoying more than we should have for only one weekend. If I had my druthers, I wouldn't want to have been any place else at that time.

Saturday, I had to keep the ball rolling (literally) with the golf tournament preliminaries, and t was unable to get to go on some of the tours that I signed up for .... Such is the price of glory, I guess.

Hitting the Tiger balls around the course was fun but tedious; and we all had a great time trying to make par. That night we all found out what the TE/AE fraternity was all about. The dinner, etc. was great and kept everyone on the edge of their particular seats wondering who was going to win what.

Even though we had experienced great cloudiness weather for the first three days of the United, Sunday had a mind of its own. As we headed out of the Speedway parking lot, the clouds started to gather and with the Chrysler parking lot in view, so did the rain show.

Load up the car (no rain tires aboard) and put up the ragtop for the trip home via Louisville, KY.

Pedro had some friends (and some great college memories) in that town, and two days later we headed North reluctantly. During the first two hours of our trip, we felt the scourge of the KY Troopers. Yucchhh!!!

No problem--homeward bound and 14 hours traveling. While you're reading this, I'll be enjoying a month in Europe (Germany, Switzerland, Italy) and returning for a winter in the Bahamas with the Sportscar Vintage Racing Association (SVRA).

My thanks to all of the TE/AE members who helped to make the United X a great success and especially to Barry Schonberger and crew. I'11 be looking forward to the next "Bash" wherever it might happen to fall. Tigers forever!!

REFLECTIONS

by Teddy Ax

I had the best time there that I can remember having anywhere. Sounds like a lot of drivel I'm sure; but I thought hard about that statement before writing it down. I arrived as one of the earlier cars (I planned ahead for the car to live up to its heritage and break down exactly half way from Boulder to Indianapolis--but it didn't); and it was exciting just to see what would pull up next.

Snooping through the parts room was fun--I spent more drool than money, but I finally got to meet Tom and Joanne who invited me out in the first place. And, of course, the contours and drive around the track was fun! Hell*/heck*, I copped a buzz from driving around the track!

But back to meeting people. You guys are great. I'd like to have an E-type Jag, but I have a feeling that I'd last about 10 minutes at one of their meets, and I wouldn't be caught dead in a Corvette or drive a Porsche if it meant world peace (as if I could afford one anyway). Anyhow, at this meet I was surrounded by the nicest

people that I've met anywhere--starting from the middle of Missouri until the minute I left for home. (Still waiting for some pictures, you guys) You all know who you are. Let's hurry it up on the return addresses, 0. K.?

I don't mean to overdo it on this topic, but leaving from home alone to meet a bunch of strangers does leave a person with reservations at first but, thanks to you guys, I had the time of my life, and I'll tell you all again in person next year**(even if you want to hold the meet in Japan). (By then the car will float anyway, or if we have it in Europe I'll make sure to have the bullet shield finished.)

* pick one
** Attn: Alan Alda, Michael Landon and Mr. Rogers--you may begin throwing up now.

AND

by Sylvia Grubbs

Did I actually drive on the Indy 500 track? You bet I did. Wow, what an experience.

Let me describe my feelings (before the United) about my husband's Tiger. Most of the time I looked upon his little green car as a big drain on our little green dollar bills. Also, I was (probably still am) an excellent backseat driver when Bob was driving--even if there is not a back seat. And when we do take the Tiger out, I constantly worry (probably never will stop) about leaving it in a parking lot unattended. Bob tells me "not to worry"-most people do not even know what it is anyways--so I reluctantly leave the car and pray it will be there unharmed when we return.

As you can see prior to the United X, my feelings for the Tiger were tolerant but not too caring. Perhaps I looked upon it as an adversary rather than a friend.

BUT all that changed at the United. I not only got to ride on the track as a passenger but as a driver. My feelings for the Tiger now are strictly respectful-that Tier is a movin' piece of machinery when it wants to be. An it wanted to be when I was driving it. I was very good, I only hit 85 MPH. Apparently there was an announcement made that asked all drivers to hold the speed down to 55 MPH. Sorry, but I truly never heard that announcement. With the wind whipping through my hair, my wide-eyed daughter and my smiling husband beside me, the sun shining brightly upon my face how could I not love it? What a thrill!

Since I was a kid of about ten I have dreamed of actually going to the Indy 500 racetrack. Now I have been there, and I have no desire to go and see the race. Our Tigers and Alpines taking those laps have fulfilled my dreams.

For those that missed the United, you really missed an event of a lifetime. The people, the weather, the cars, and the glory of it all really made it an event to remember forever. Boy, am I glad I went.

ETC.

by Dan Morris

Over twenty years ago I drove an eighteen wheeler car hauler to the Jacksonville, FL, shipyard to pick up a load of foreign cars. When the dock men brought out the cars they were unfamiliar, but their name was not--ten years earlier I had a spectacular ride with my Uncle Henry (who drove stock cars at the time) and that car was a Sunbeam Talbot.

I got in one of the new cars, and I could not believe it! Most of the British cars I had hauled wouldn't pull themselves up onto the truck, but these babies would almost jump over the truck! What a car! I thought it would be great to own one of these, but they were out of my reach ($) at the time.

Not long after that I quit the company I worked for and went into car transporting on my own. I did not see any more Tigers for many years; but, occasionally, I would remember smoking the tires on the pier in Jacksonville.

My family grew up and my youngest son became interested in 'Beams. We bought an Alpine two years ago; and while we were in Indy for United X, my wife found and bought another Alpine for me for our 25th Anniversary!

We had a great time at United X and made a lot of new friends there, but three days is just not long enough to get to know everyone. I still haul cars from MI to the east coast and FL, and I hope to see you all at United XI in 1987!

A tip of the Sunbeam bonnet to those who helped make this newsletter a reality. In addition to the writers (acknowledged with bylines), we would like to say a big thanks to our photographers: Scott Woerth, Steve Hansen, Mike & Linda Smith, Tom Ehrhart, Russ O'Brien, Steve & Joyce Yates, Sylvia Grubbs, Gary & Andrea Hellings, Barry Schonberger, and Joan Farmer for their big assist. Many thanks, folks! TE/AE is surely a group of Sunbeam lovers who willingly give time and lots of effort (not to mention the TLC) to sustaining and furthering the marque!

Pictures - Set 1

A  All lined up and ready to go...

B  Fabulous 50 was a grrreat stop- & nostalgia plus: a real drive in

C  (not a pick up window) with roller skating car hops!

D  The Hall of Fame Museum was a favorite stop covering a lifetime of racing history.

E  The Children's Museum brought out the kid in everybody.

F  Everywhere we went the welcome sign was displayed.

Pictures - Set 2

A & B Katie Kathmann and Linda Smith & prepare for registration at its best (and busiest).

C Which one is selling insurance? Neither, Dave Johnson (and daughter) go over registration details with Barry Schonberger.

D Our registrar map "pin pointed" attendees' origins.

E Part swapping can be invigorating or relaxing (caught you Dave!).

F No, it's not a pit crew or track spectators ...it's some of our speakers doing their warm up exercises for Tech Session's Comp Seminar.

Pictures - Set 3

A Brian Boyer's blue MkII drove in from MD to join the United concours fun.

B Racer's Row was a favorite among concours viewers.

C Dr. & Mrs. Bruney have an immaculate engine compartment in their Harrington LeMans.

D Gene Boone's Most Popular and #1 Modified Tiger shows the other side of the Sunbeam coin.

E This Alpine adds an interesting angle to body style on a Sunbeam.

F Teddy Ax and his Sunbeam application of James Bond was certainly a hit.

Pictures - Set 4

A Tigers and more tigers were in Indy, and this one was just about everyone's favorite--any clues to his/her ID? Aw come on, didn't anyone get a pew print from this CAT?

B The Ken Bishop family enjoying United X.

C California `Beaming--Dan Walters, Mary Lou & Bernie Zelmanski, Darrell Brunn, Jo &,Keith Queen, Carol Mancini$ Rick McLeod, Tom McDaniels, Margot & Frank Simms, Dennis Mancini and Shawn Mahn made the trip east from CA (picture is minus Shawn).

D Tiger Joe enjoyed his United birthday (and cake).

E Speaking of cake...the official banquet dessert did not last long!

F Mike Smith puts his Hellings crew to work tallying votes.

G El & Dave Lawler were surprised with a 25th anniversary award.

H Joanne & Tom Ehrhart, Mike Smith and Wally Swift are the only 'Beamers who made it to all ten Uniteds.

Pictures - Set 5

A A much photographed track sign.

B Little people need and want Tigers, too.

C Sunbeams were not the only mode of transportation at this Indy United.

D Bill Miller and his X=race Tiger showing of some track mechanics to Rick McLeod.

E Ladies & gentlemen, start your engines....

F A very wet Sunbeam lineup waited for the water sport, whoops, auto Sport (autocross, of course!).

Pictures - Set 6

A Banquet time--full house (225+).

B John & Katie Kathmann present the Lord Rootes trophy to

C Tom & Kathy Culvert (with son, Jim Culvert and Mike Smith as appreciative observers).

And the First Place Winners--

D Gene Boone - Modified Sunbeam & Most Popular Tiger.

E Scott Woerth - Stock Tiger.

F Joanne Ehrhart - Stock Alpine.

G Ron Heinz - Personalized Tiger.

H Steve Masse - Personalized Alpine.

I Larry Marzano - Comp Tiger

J Bert Szulc - Most Popular Alpine.

Pictures - Set 7

A The track drive was the icing on the cake for just about everyone.

B Dave Johnson takes our friendly Tiger for a Tiger ride on the track.

C Sunbeam fans wait for the tour bus.

D Barry Schonberger sizes up tires for his autocrossing at the Hall of Fame museum.

E General membership meetings always draw an interested group.

F John Kathmann sloshes through the autocross.