Top Down in the NE

Joyce · 02-03-2008, 08:33 AM

Good Morning to you all----------It was 44 degrees and sunny yesterday and I have been really anxious to try my car with the roof down. I DID IT!!!!!!!! It was great, I was not even cold, (I followed Java's advice and dressed for it). Put the windows up and the great little heater on full blast, I actually had to turn the heat down, I was melting. My head was wrapped in a scarf, I had on gloves and a Navy Pea-coat (not sure on the spelling of that, but I think you will know what I mean). This was so great, I am famous for always being cold and I really had my reservations about putting the top down in winter, but I have been reading the forums and even people in Buffalo do it. So I took the plunge, and I couldn't wait to tell you all. I feel so proud,

I may even try it again today if I go out.-------------J

s2k 4 me · 02-03-2008, 08:46 AM

Congrats Joyce!
Honestly, driving the stewie with the top down when its a bit chilly outside isnt that bad. Peaple who dont own a convertible dont understand that you dont get hit with the wind and cold air rushing by. And they put really great heaters in this little car.

Java Junky · 02-03-2008, 08:50 AM

Yer a true gem Joyce!
Peacoat (Ya nailed it) ain't the way'da go. If you're gonna dooitt on a regular basis, a zippable motorcycle-type leather jacket with jus' a little insulation. (Warmth n' cool too)
But I say that with much trepidation. You're dooin' the deed n' I hesitate to mess with that.
'Fore ya knowitt, you're gonna be sendin' in flicks with yer WWI flyers leather cap on yer noggin' while yer sittin' in the pilot'z seat all pre-flighted-up fer take off.

We (Mama Java n' myself) jus' got in from a trip out to PA for breakfast. We left at 07:30 with frost n' ice on everything so, fer Mama'z sake, the top stayed up. But after breakfast Mama'd worn 'er leather bomber jacket so we could drop the top. Sun'z out n' the ride wuz jus' plain ol' enjoyable.

You've no idea how happy I am that you didditt n' you enjoyed yourself.
This one supercedes findin' the secret compartment Joyce. Welcome aboard.
Java
One thing all: I wouldn't be so anxious to drop a top in the cold if:
1) it had a plastic rear window 'r
2) the top'z showin' signs of frozen areas from previous moisture, 'r obviously, snow.
Other than those two conditions, I'd say it's open season.

gomarlins3 · 02-03-2008, 09:32 AM

Driving with the top down on a cold day is awesome. I love to do it when I can.

Joyce · 02-03-2008, 09:37 AM

JJ I will keep these suggestions in mind, I never thought of a bike jacket. The helmet! we will see!! I do think that a WW1 flyer's cap should only worn by you--it is a trademark. I know about the cautions on the back window and the any residual precipitation, but thanks for the reminder---you are very good at that kind of thing. Mama Java sounds really neat, give her my best.
s2K 4me--thanks for the congrats, I was amazed that the wind did not hit me, I actually think that the faster I went the warmer I felt! Can that be so, maybe the way the air travels over the car, who knows.
The top down a great way to celebrate Ground Hogs Day.

Neil · 02-03-2008, 03:25 PM

That's great news Joyce, but next time............................."you really have to leave the driveway"................................just kidding

Neil

Java Junky · 02-03-2008, 04:04 PM

As for my motorcycle jacket suggestion: any leather jacket, aviatior style 'r bike style that has a little insulation, cuffs that fit snuggly 'r kin be zipped snug, n' most importantly, a zipper tha'cha can snug up dependin' on how much the cold is botherin' you.
You don' godda gedda jacket that has equal amounts'a leather n' zippers. Unless that'z the kind'a jacket that makes ya happy.
N' if anybody feels funny about the WWI flyer'z cap, try a winter trooper hat. Similar to the old trapper'z fur lined jobs. Certainly less "odd" lookin' than the flyer'z cap if you've a concern about that kind'a thing.
And this year, anybody who'z anybody will be wearin' . . .
'Sorry to turn this into a fashion thread on ya Joyce, but it's jus' too neat ta sit by n' let alodda folks miss out on it.
'Tickled pink that you're believer.
Java

SoMe0nE2tAlK2 · 02-03-2008, 06:09 PM

Wow. I gotta give it to ya NE folks. I wouldn't even think about doin it below 60 :P

Java Junky · 02-03-2008, 06:29 PM

As I see it the choices when it gets cold are:
A) Park it.
B) Drive it with the top up.
C) Do whu'cha goddadoo ta drive it with the top down.
It's such a no-brainer that I don't think it warrants a poll.
Java

philiam · 02-03-2008, 10:36 PM

I prefer the top down on a cold day.

Something some of you might know. Use your air condition at least once a week, even in the snow. Sounds crazy but you can crank up the heater at the same time. The reason is that there is an oil in the coolant to keep the seals flexible. If the AC sits without use for an extended time the seals dry and the coolant seeps out over time. Just a few minutes helps you keep your cool.

When that heat wave hits you might find the AC on the week side and in need of charging.

Scooter · 02-03-2008, 11:27 PM

Thanks Phil, yet another priceless nugget from the blue that makes me go, "well, yeah, that makes total sense!". Joyce, you're right, with the aero on this baby faster is better, the cockpit is a cocoon when the outside air's blowing around it. I love driving in the very rare rain here at freeway speed (although the rain makes the speed unlikely usually with other drivers) because that stays out too!

philiam · 02-03-2008, 11:40 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Scooter

Thanks Phil, yet another priceless nugget from the blue that makes me go, "well, yeah, that makes total sense!". Joyce, you're right, with the aero on this baby faster is better, the cockpit is a cocoon when the outside air's blowing around it. I love driving in the very rare rain here at freeway speed (although the rain makes the speed unlikely usually with other drivers) because that stays out too!

Did a piece for Rod & Custom so I have done my homework on that. I figured it was pretty common knowledge but worth a reminder for our cool cousins.

H20 · 02-04-2008, 03:04 AM

The bride and I had a nice sunday ride yesterday. Top down in around 40 something F. Absolutely delightfull.

Java Junky · 02-04-2008, 03:52 AM

Thanks fer sayin' it out loud Phil. I'd forgotten that AC bit n' I'm gonna godda check to see if my havin' never used the AC might'a lightened the car'z weigt by the amount'a coolant I might'a lost.
'Hope ya caught me in time pal.
In light rain, I think as low as 45 we can stay dry.
When it's normal rain it requires highway speeds (drove in from PA in a good rain when traffic wuzzn't bad. Mama Java thought it wuz aces.)
Serious rain requires battenin' down the hatches n' raisin' the top.

A little side note for those of us who almost never have the top up:
'Had the top up yesterday for a bit of a ride n' I'm goin' crazy with all these noises I'm hearin' from the car as I'm drivin' along. Of course, it wuz jus' because I hardly ever had the top up, 'least not in a long time. But, not bein' the shiniest Stewie on the lot, until I realized whut wuz goin' on, I wuz gettin' a little concerned!
Be well gang,
Java

H20 · 02-04-2008, 10:12 AM

FWIW re: the AC thing. If you have not done the infamous AC mod, then every time the defroster runs the AC pump also does it's thing.

TheSoundMan21 · 02-04-2008, 10:43 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by SoMe0nE2tAlK2

Wow. I gotta give it to ya NE folks. I wouldn't even think about doin it below 60 :P

I am with you man. I am in OK. and it was about 73 degrees yesterday it was awesome.

Almost Tactful · 02-04-2008, 10:50 AM

So far the coldest I've had it down was 38 degrees and that was when we had a wicked cold cnap here down south lol....then again I am a top down whore lol, I've had my S for a month and a week now and it's been up like once......when it rained lol

Swingle1 · 02-04-2008, 12:04 PM

It's currently in the mid/upper 70s in Dallas. I just passed an S with the top UP. If that's not a ticket-able offense, then we just need to pass some legislation!

s2jiggy · 02-04-2008, 12:07 PM

ahhh, the thing I enjoy most about driving with the top down under 35 degrees is the looks on peoples faces. Priceless and well worth the ownership costs....

Java Junky · 02-04-2008, 01:03 PM

Amen jiggy. One'z godda get one'z satisfaction where one can, y'know?
Be well,
Java

Red Stwokay · 03-03-2008, 10:16 PM

If the S is out the top is down. No such thing as cold, heater kicks butt! I ride a motorcycle above 40 so the S is easy. Had the bike out when colder but only for half hour or so, too cold.

SilverS2K422 · 03-03-2008, 10:22 PM

wats tha cold? Top down no matter wat, cep rain and snow of corse

Red Stwokay · 03-03-2008, 10:44 PM

Nice n toasty in TX?

SilverS2K422 · 03-03-2008, 10:50 PM

no it snowed today

and its prolly like 30degrees out right now

Red Stwokay · 03-03-2008, 10:55 PM

Damn, might as well be here in frigid NE.

Java Junky · 03-04-2008, 02:20 AM

All testosterone-powered talk aside, while I've only this year ventured into the teens with the top down, when the numbers drop below the teens, the sky'z only visible through my windows . . . jus' like every other poor compartmentized schmuck.

An explanatory note if I may:
Up until I got Stewie, I always rode a bike through the winterz. Full leathers into late fall n' snowmobile suit on until spring.
So, for me anyway, sittin' behind a windshield with luxuries like a heater, windows n' the top fer when I'm jus' tired 'r chilled . . . well, I've been pretty up-close-n'-personal with cold; pilotin' Stewie with the top down in the cold izz a cake-walk. 'Z'long'z'ya dress fer it, it's a dooable enjoyment that opens up a whole big chunk'a the year that was previously wasted.
Be well gang,
Java

SilverS2K422 · 03-04-2008, 02:41 AM

i know right, texas gets colder than people up north think, in a wierd way though like for example yesterday it was around 75degrees outside and today it snowed and tomorrow it will prolly be in the 80s ha, wierdest weather you could possibly live in, it gets kinda annoying at times. im moving to florida in May where i will be able to enjoy the nice
warm weather all year long= top always down.

philiam · 03-04-2008, 10:52 PM

One thing about Texas, if you don't like the weather just wait
20 minutes.

02-03-2008, 08:33 AM	#1 (permalink)
Joyce Member Join Date: Dec 2007 Posts: 76	Top Down in the NE Good Morning to you all----------It was 44 degrees and sunny yesterday and I have been really anxious to try my car with the roof down. I DID IT!!!!!!!! It was great, I was not even cold, (I followed Java's advice and dressed for it). Put the windows up and the great little heater on full blast, I actually had to turn the heat down, I was melting. My head was wrapped in a scarf, I had on gloves and a Navy Pea-coat (not sure on the spelling of that, but I think you will know what I mean). This was so great, I am famous for always being cold and I really had my reservations about putting the top down in winter, but I have been reading the forums and even people in Buffalo do it. So I took the plunge, and I couldn't wait to tell you all. I feel so proud, I may even try it again today if I go out.-------------J

02-03-2008, 08:46 AM	#2 (permalink)
s2k 4 me Senior Member Join Date: Sep 2007 Location: Loveland, Colorado Posts: 353	Congrats Joyce! Honestly, driving the stewie with the top down when its a bit chilly outside isnt that bad. Peaple who dont own a convertible dont understand that you dont get hit with the wind and cold air rushing by. And they put really great heaters in this little car. __________________ 04' NFR-Comptech - Veilside - Rick's - Fujita - Grillcraft - Tein - NRG - Berk - Chargespeed - Lucid - Carbing - Megan - T1R - Alpine - Boston Acoustics

02-03-2008, 08:50 AM	#3 (permalink)
Java Junky Resident Curmudgeon Join Date: Jun 2005 Location: Joisey Posts: 4,927	Yer a true gem Joyce! Peacoat (Ya nailed it) ain't the way'da go. If you're gonna dooitt on a regular basis, a zippable motorcycle-type leather jacket with jus' a little insulation. (Warmth n' cool too) But I say that with much trepidation. You're dooin' the deed n' I hesitate to mess with that. 'Fore ya knowitt, you're gonna be sendin' in flicks with yer WWI flyers leather cap on yer noggin' while yer sittin' in the pilot'z seat all pre-flighted-up fer take off. We (Mama Java n' myself) jus' got in from a trip out to PA for breakfast. We left at 07:30 with frost n' ice on everything so, fer Mama'z sake, the top stayed up. But after breakfast Mama'd worn 'er leather bomber jacket so we could drop the top. Sun'z out n' the ride wuz jus' plain ol' enjoyable. You've no idea how happy I am that you didditt n' you enjoyed yourself. This one supercedes findin' the secret compartment Joyce. Welcome aboard. Java One thing all: I wouldn't be so anxious to drop a top in the cold if: 1) it had a plastic rear window 'r 2) the top'z showin' signs of frozen areas from previous moisture, 'r obviously, snow. Other than those two conditions, I'd say it's open season. __________________ In life-long pursuit of that most mythic of beasts: the ever-elusive perfect corner. Well . . . that, r' at least a whole lodda clear spin-out room. Last edited by Java Junky : 02-03-2008 at 09:03 AM. Reason: Afterthought

02-03-2008, 09:32 AM	#4 (permalink)
gomarlins3 "Enjoy the drive" Join Date: Jul 2005 Location: Kuna Idaho Posts: 2,289	Driving with the top down on a cold day is awesome. I love to do it when I can. __________________ Happiness is a nice road, great weather, and driving the S with Sue in the seat next to me. "Whatever you do, where ever you go, enjoy the drive." I know for a FACT that the last year of production of the S2000 is 2003!!!!! After that, it will be the S2200 under an assumed name.

02-03-2008, 04:04 PM	#7 (permalink)
Java Junky Resident Curmudgeon Join Date: Jun 2005 Location: Joisey Posts: 4,927	As for my motorcycle jacket suggestion: any leather jacket, aviatior style 'r bike style that has a little insulation, cuffs that fit snuggly 'r kin be zipped snug, n' most importantly, a zipper tha'cha can snug up dependin' on how much the cold is botherin' you. You don' godda gedda jacket that has equal amounts'a leather n' zippers. *Unless* that'z the kind'a jacket that makes ya happy. N' if anybody feels funny about the WWI flyer'z cap, try a winter trooper hat. Similar to the old trapper'z fur lined jobs. Certainly less "odd" lookin' than the flyer'z cap if you've a concern about that kind'a thing. And *this* year, anybody who'z anybody will be wearin' . . . 'Sorry to turn this into a fashion thread on ya Joyce, but it's jus' too neat ta sit by n' let alodda folks miss out on it. 'Tickled pink that you're believer. Java __________________ In life-long pursuit of that most mythic of beasts: the ever-elusive perfect corner. Well . . . that, r' at least a whole lodda clear spin-out room.

02-03-2008, 09:37 AM	#5 (permalink)
Joyce Member Join Date: Dec 2007 Posts: 76	JJ I will keep these suggestions in mind, I never thought of a bike jacket. The helmet! we will see!! I do think that a WW1 flyer's cap should only worn by you--it is a trademark. I know about the cautions on the back window and the any residual precipitation, but thanks for the reminder---you are very good at that kind of thing. Mama Java sounds really neat, give her my best. s2K 4me--thanks for the congrats, I was amazed that the wind did not hit me, I actually think that the faster I went the warmer I felt! Can that be so, maybe the way the air travels over the car, who knows. The top down a great way to celebrate Ground Hogs Day.

02-03-2008, 03:25 PM	#6 (permalink)
Neil Senior Member Join Date: Dec 2007 Location: Ontario Posts: 694	That's great news Joyce, but next time............................."you really have to leave the driveway"................................just kidding Neil

02-03-2008, 06:09 PM	#8 (permalink)
SoMe0nE2tAlK2 Senior Member Join Date: Dec 2007 Location: Fontana, CA Posts: 131	Wow. I gotta give it to ya NE folks. I wouldn't even think about doin it below 60 :P __________________

02-03-2008, 06:29 PM	#9 (permalink)
Java Junky Resident Curmudgeon Join Date: Jun 2005 Location: Joisey Posts: 4,927	As I see it the choices when it gets cold are: A) Park it. B) Drive it with the top up. C) Do whu'cha goddadoo ta drive it with the top down. It's such a no-brainer that I don't think it warrants a poll. Java __________________ In life-long pursuit of that most mythic of beasts: the ever-elusive perfect corner. Well . . . that, r' at least a whole lodda clear spin-out room.

02-03-2008, 10:36 PM	#10 (permalink)
philiam Senior Member Join Date: Sep 2007 Location: woodland hills, CA Posts: 1,183	I prefer the top down on a cold day. Something some of you might know. Use your air condition at least once a week, even in the snow. Sounds crazy but you can crank up the heater at the same time. The reason is that there is an oil in the coolant to keep the seals flexible. If the AC sits without use for an extended time the seals dry and the coolant seeps out over time. Just a few minutes helps you keep your cool. When that heat wave hits you might find the AC on the week side and in need of charging. __________________

02-03-2008, 11:27 PM	#11 (permalink)
Scooter Senior Newbie Join Date: Oct 2007 Location: Las Vegas Posts: 808	Thanks Phil, yet another priceless nugget from the blue that makes me go, "well, yeah, that makes total sense!". Joyce, you're right, with the aero on this baby faster is better, the cockpit is a cocoon when the outside air's blowing around it. I love driving in the very rare rain here at freeway speed (although the rain makes the speed unlikely usually with other drivers) because that stays out too!

02-04-2008, 03:04 AM	#13 (permalink)
H20 Senior Member Join Date: Sep 2007 Location: CT, USA Posts: 306	The bride and I had a nice sunday ride yesterday. Top down in around 40 something F. Absolutely delightfull.

02-04-2008, 03:52 AM	#14 (permalink)
Java Junky Resident Curmudgeon Join Date: Jun 2005 Location: Joisey Posts: 4,927	Thanks fer sayin' it out loud Phil. I'd forgotten that AC bit n' I'm gonna godda check to see if my havin' never used the AC might'a lightened the car'z weigt by the amount'a coolant I might'a lost. 'Hope ya caught me in time pal. In light rain, I think as low as 45 we can stay dry. When it's normal rain it requires highway speeds (drove in from PA in a good rain when traffic wuzzn't bad. Mama Java thought it wuz aces.) Serious rain requires battenin' down the hatches n' raisin' the top. A little side note for those of us who almost never have the top up: 'Had the top up yesterday for a bit of a ride n' I'm goin' crazy with all these noises I'm hearin' from the car as I'm drivin' along. Of course, it wuz jus' because I hardly ever had the top up, 'least not in a long time. But, not bein' the shiniest Stewie on the lot, until I realized whut wuz goin' on, I wuz gettin' a little concerned! Be well gang, Java __________________ In life-long pursuit of that most mythic of beasts: the ever-elusive perfect corner. Well . . . that, r' at least a whole lodda clear spin-out room.

02-04-2008, 10:12 AM	#15 (permalink)
H20 Senior Member Join Date: Sep 2007 Location: CT, USA Posts: 306	FWIW re: the AC thing. If you have not done the infamous AC mod, then every time the defroster runs the AC pump also does it's thing.

02-04-2008, 10:50 AM	#17 (permalink)
Almost Tactful Member Join Date: Jan 2008 Posts: 74	So far the coldest I've had it down was 38 degrees and that was when we had a wicked cold cnap here down south lol....then again I am a top down whore lol, I've had my S for a month and a week now and it's been up like once......when it rained lol

02-04-2008, 12:04 PM	#18 (permalink)
Swingle1 Senior Member Join Date: Feb 2007 Posts: 238	It's currently in the mid/upper 70s in Dallas. I just passed an S with the top UP. If that's not a ticket-able offense, then we just need to pass some legislation!

02-04-2008, 12:07 PM	#19 (permalink)
s2jiggy Senior Member Join Date: Nov 2007 Location: macedon, NY Posts: 133	ahhh, the thing I enjoy most about driving with the top down under 35 degrees is the looks on peoples faces. Priceless and well worth the ownership costs.... __________________ *2003 Pontiac with Guinness* (Thanks Jagg...) The reason you don't see many White S2k's is because they are way too fast to see.....

02-04-2008, 01:03 PM	#20 (permalink)
Java Junky Resident Curmudgeon Join Date: Jun 2005 Location: Joisey Posts: 4,927	Amen jiggy. One'z godda get one'z satisfaction where one can, y'know? Be well, Java __________________ In life-long pursuit of that most mythic of beasts: the ever-elusive perfect corner. Well . . . that, r' at least a whole lodda clear spin-out room.

03-03-2008, 10:16 PM	#21 (permalink)
Red Stwokay Dismember Join Date: Feb 2008 Location: TAX STATE (CT) Posts: 216	If the S is out the top is down. No such thing as cold, heater kicks butt! I ride a motorcycle above 40 so the S is easy. Had the bike out when colder but only for half hour or so, too cold. __________________ FAST THINKERS DRIVE FAST! Why expect less?

03-03-2008, 10:22 PM	#22 (permalink)
SilverS2K422 SilverS2K Join Date: Oct 2007 Location: Dallas, TX Posts: 529	wats tha cold? Top down no matter wat, cep rain and snow of corse

03-03-2008, 10:44 PM	#23 (permalink)
Red Stwokay Dismember Join Date: Feb 2008 Location: TAX STATE (CT) Posts: 216	Nice n toasty in TX? __________________ FAST THINKERS DRIVE FAST! Why expect less?

03-03-2008, 10:50 PM	#24 (permalink)
SilverS2K422 SilverS2K Join Date: Oct 2007 Location: Dallas, TX Posts: 529	no it snowed today and its prolly like 30degrees out right now

03-03-2008, 10:55 PM	#25 (permalink)
Red Stwokay Dismember Join Date: Feb 2008 Location: TAX STATE (CT) Posts: 216	Damn, might as well be here in frigid NE. __________________ FAST THINKERS DRIVE FAST! Why expect less?

03-04-2008, 02:20 AM	#26 (permalink)
Java Junky Resident Curmudgeon Join Date: Jun 2005 Location: Joisey Posts: 4,927	All testosterone-powered talk aside, while I've only this year ventured into the teens with the top down, when the numbers drop below the teens, the sky'z only visible through my windows . . . jus' like every other poor compartmentized schmuck. An explanatory note if I may: Up until I got Stewie, I always rode a bike through the winterz. Full leathers into late fall n' snowmobile suit on until spring. So, for me anyway, sittin' behind a windshield with luxuries like a heater, windows n' the top fer when I'm jus' tired 'r chilled . . . well, I've been pretty up-close-n'-personal with cold; pilotin' Stewie with the top down in the cold izz a cake-walk. 'Z'long'z'ya dress fer it, it's a dooable enjoyment that opens up a whole big chunk'a the year that was previously wasted. Be well gang, Java __________________ In life-long pursuit of that most mythic of beasts: the ever-elusive perfect corner. Well . . . that, r' at least a whole lodda clear spin-out room. Last edited by Java Junky : 03-04-2008 at 03:11 AM.

03-04-2008, 02:41 AM	#27 (permalink)
SilverS2K422 SilverS2K Join Date: Oct 2007 Location: Dallas, TX Posts: 529	i know right, texas gets colder than people up north think, in a wierd way though like for example yesterday it was around 75degrees outside and today it snowed and tomorrow it will prolly be in the 80s ha, wierdest weather you could possibly live in, it gets kinda annoying at times. im moving to florida in May where i will be able to enjoy the nice warm weather all year long= top always down.

03-04-2008, 10:52 PM	#28 (permalink)
philiam Senior Member Join Date: Sep 2007 Location: woodland hills, CA Posts: 1,183	One thing about Texas, if you don't like the weather just wait 20 minutes. __________________