Extreme 4 Wheelin'
Kansas Rocks, October 9th 2004
(Click on image to enlarge)

No, you have not come to the wrong place.  On our way to the wheelin' park, we made a small detour to visit West Mineral Kansas.  We are here for Big Brutus, a 160' tall super rock crawler/shovel/mover!  This beast can move up to 150 tons in one scoop, and powered by four 300 HP electric motors, it can travel at up to 1/4 mph.  It has four wheel steer, and a hydraulic suspension with 5-1/2 FEET of travel!

Ya get the idea, this is a VERY big bucket!

Now it's time for some some wheelin'.  It rained earlier in the week, while not slimy, everything was still pretty darn slick.  A lot of skinny peddle will be necessary for the diamond trails!

Here Tim and Steve test out the traction.

Trail width is always an issue for the bigger trucks.

For the first good challenge of the day, we take a stab at Can Opener.   I manage to make it up over the big ledge, but find myself stuck between a couple trees.  A little 'manpower' on the end of a strap, and I'm out.

Now Tim winds the buggy up for an assault.  Unfortunately, the ledge claims the right front axle, and he's forced to go around.  First carnage of the day.

Actually, Norm blew a radiator hose (AGAIN) while parked above Can Opener before Tim broke.  Thanks to the help of several of the local park personnel, Norm was able to refill the radiator with some fresh pond scum, um, I mean water.

Now for Steve's turn. 
Point, shoot, and keep it between the trees.  That's a lot easier said then done.

Rusty was driving for Dave on this spot.  But, this is a case of the bigger is not always better.  The sound of crunching fiberglass called the end to a thrilling V8 assault.  A gentle tug from a winch was necessary to avoid even more body damage.

After witnessing all the carnage, Walt wisely chose the 'bypass'.   However, you might notice that even this has a black diamond rating!

With only three wheels pulling, Tim needs some extra pull at a few spots throughout the day.

Oh, can you say nasty mud.
Tim drops in pretty gracefully, but me and Larry do an exciting nose dive and wheel stand into the muck.  You can follow the mud line to see how far up it went...

Now we've come to Carnage Canyon.
This is a fun spot, and especially challenging with these conditions.

The wall at the top is especially interesting.  With the help of rear steer, Dave is able to work his way up on it.

Unfortunately, rear steer becomes a liability when he gets in a bind and breaks the ram loose from the axle.

After Dave is patched up and out, it's decided to call it a day.

Everyone is able to drive back on the trailers under their own power.
That's always a good day!

Thanks to all that came out, and thanks to the guys at he park that helped Norm out with that stuff they called water... :-)